As an avid Newcastle Jets supporter in the A-League, I have been quite disappointed in the start to our season.
I was looking forward to a new year after finishing eighth overall last season, hoping we could get up the ladder and prove that we are contenders for the cup.
Unfortunately in the first four rounds it has been lacklustre.
With a 2-0 loss to Sydney FC in the season opener followed by three draws to Perth Glory, Wellington Phoenix and the Central Coast Mariners. It’s a decidedly different start compared to last year’s efforts of one loss and three straight wins, but I’m optimistic this season and I think we can turn some heads.
After watching the games this season, I am hopeful that the Jets will get a few wins and also be in contention for the cup.
With a very similar team to last year the jets have gelled well and are playing as a team better than ever.
Last year we had a good attacking game and which helped win a few matches, however this year it seems more even.
In attack we are more than capable of scoring goals which was evident against the Mariners.
We are also capable of defending, evident in our matches against Phoenix and Glory (both 0-0 draws).
However our main issue is constructive play considering that we also conceded two goals against the Mariners after we were 2-0 ahead after 55 minutes.
The Jets struggled to attack once we were put on the back foot with most of our attacking plays falling apart.
It’s pretty obvious that we are capable of scoring; we just need to create the chances.
Our next game is on the ninth of November and we play Adelaide who are currently one point ahead of us on the ladder.
If we can get a win and the Mariners lose we will move up to equal fifth on six points.
It’s not necessarily a hard task to beat Adelaide since they have had one win, one draw and two losses.
Even with the reintroduction of Emile Heskey it will still be a hard fought game nevertheless.
It is gearing up to be a good game, and since it is still uncertain which team will take the field on the ninth, I suggest a natural line-up for the Jets in a 4-3-3 formation with the following players:
GK- Kennedy
Full Backs- Neville, Mitchell, Gallaway, Regan
Mid Field – Kantarovski, Zadkovich, Virgili
Fwd – Taggart, Heskey, Bridges
Most of these players are seasoned professionals with a lot of games under their respective belts, however I believe the return of Emile Heskey against Adelaide will boost the Jets and help us claim our first victory for the season.
As long as we can play some constructive football and hold possession of the ball, we will do well this season.
I am hoping for a top four finish this year, I think we can do it with the players we have and my faith in Van Egmond is infinite.
However as always, all will become obvious in the coming months.
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