Jets 'pumped' for F3 Derby

Newcastle Jets’ captain Ruben Zadkovich believes his team has what it takes to triumph over rivals Central Coast Mariners in the F3 Derby on home turf this Saturday night at Hunter Stadium.

On such an occasion, the Jets are eager to take it to another level for round four of the competition.

“It-s going to be a massive game and we-re pumped,” Zadkovich said.

“It-s the local derby. I know for a fact, the game that we most want to win is playing Central Coast at home, and we-re definitely up for it.”

He simply says the animosity between the two team is because the Mariners are geographically closest to the Jets.

“They-re the ones we want to compete with for fans, membership and support. I think that-s how the rivalry starts,” he explains.

Despite the stakes being high, Zadkovich claims the rivalry isn-t distracting for him personally.

“It is just another game, obviously there is that little bit of banter, between team, between players and obviously the fans,” he said.

“That-s the biggest thing, the fans really get behind this game. The Newcastle people really want to see us beat Central Coast.

“We really want to reflect that in our attitude.”

Zadkovich described the Mariners as a benchmark, “It-ll be a really tough game and it-s good for us to get a good test at home early on in the season to see where we-re at.”

The Jets are buoyed by the possible return of star striker Emile Heskey, who got through the final training session on Friday.

“It-s going to be fantastic to get him back,” Zadkovich admitted.

“Emile-s worked so hard. His attitude is unbelievable. All credit goes to him and to the medical staff.

“We-re all really excited and looking forward to having him back.”

Zadkovich also said his hamstring is feeling great after it caused him some problems in last weekend’s draw.

Newcastle Jets v Central Coast Mariners
Saturday, November 2
Hunter Stadium
Kick-off 7.45pm
Tickets available from PROticket