Craig Deans says the Jets must have patience as they chase after all three points in Friday’s must-win clash with Western Sydney.
Hunter Ports Newcastle Jets assistant coach Craig Deans says the Jets must have patience as they chase after all three points in Friday-s must-win clash with Western Sydney Wanderers at Hunter Stadium.
Newcastle must win the match and hope that other Round 27 results go their way to qualify for the top six, but Deans said that does not necessarily mean the Jets will be going for all out attack from the opening whistle.
“You need to be careful because you can quite easily lose a game in the first half rather than win sometimes,” Deans said.
“We need to be patient, play our own game. Our football has been quite good in the last couple of games, except for crucial moments we have let ourselves down a bit.
“We need to keep going as we have been and stay positive the whole time and if we are good enough we will get the win.”
Deans said the Jets would have to be wary of Western Sydney-s dangerous counter-attacking capabilities as the push forward in search of all three points.
“We had a look at the video of our game against Adelaide to see how we can be a bit better in transitional moments,” Deans said.
“We are quite comfortable at the moment when we have the ball, but transition and decision making in those split seconds is letting us down a little bit.
“It is more about looking at those moments because Western Sydney is a good counter attacking team and if you don-t get those things right it is going to cost you on the day.”
While Western Sydney are likely to be without key players such as Shinji Ono and Iacopo La Rocca due to injury and suspension, Deans said there are still a number of other attacking threats the Jets will have to nullify.
“They still have Aaron Mooy and Mark Bridge is a clever player as well,” he said.
“Youssouf Hersi comes back in, so while they lose their marquee player, they gain a couple of very good attacking weapons.
“It is important to be focused on our performance and hopefully it takes care of itself.”
A big turnout from Newcastle Jets Members and supporters for the final home game of the season is expected to be supplemented by a large contingent of travelling Wanderers fans.
Deans is confident the Jets squad can thrive in a big-game atmosphere.
“Western Sydney as a club this year have been excellent for the competition and league and their supporters have added an extra dimension to all their games, particularly the home games, but they have travelled a lot in NSW as well,” he said.
“It is a good opportunity, in front of a big crowd and in an important game. For the players, these are the type of games you play football for.”
Newcastle Jets v Western Sydney Wanderers
Friday, March 29
Hunter Stadium
Kick-off 5.30pm
Tickets from PROticket
