The Newcastle Jets are set to face off in a friendly with reigning Hyundai A-League champions, Sydney FC at Magic Park, Broadmeadow.
The match-up shapes as another test for Ernie Merrickās side as the new look squad continues to progress through pre-season.
Merrick said the clash would be major challenge for the Jets as they build on their recent victories on the road.
āWe took a big step forward with the (3 ā 1) win against Melbourne City away from home and backed that up with a win against Canberra Olympic,ā said Merrick.
āAside from the wins themselves ā which are always pleasing ā the boys were able to take a lot from those friendly games, both technically and tactically.
āWeāve been able to find the back of the net in recent matches and now itās time to see if we can score some goals against one of the leagueās bigger outfits.ā
With a squad that is home to names like Brosque, BobĆ“ and Ninkovic; the Jetsā boss knows his team will have to be at their best.
āSydney is a top team who possess a very talented squad, one that isnāt too dissimilar to that which went through last season only losing a single match,ā Merrick added.
āThey control the midfield really well, theyāve got fullbacks that like to get forward and theyāve got some of the best attacking players in the league.
āIām looking forward to seeing how we can set up against them and control possession ā this will be a great test for our defence.
Merrick indicated that the make up of his starting XI was progressing, with plenty of competition for spots ā with strong form within the sideās junior ranks.
āThereās a position or two that weāre looking at to ensure we get the best fit and overall balance for the team.
āI wouldnāt say this weekās team is our round 1 side ā but weāre definitely getting close.
āThis fixture and the game against Wellington next week will be a great indication of how weāre tracking and the progress weāve made to date.ā
The Jetsā pre-season friendly with Sydney FC kicks of at 3pm at Magic Park, Broadmeadow.