Auckland FC Adjusts Training Ahead of Clash with Newcastle Jets

Auckland FC’s head coach, Steve Corica, has implemented a revised training schedule ahead of their upcoming A-League match against the last-placed Newcastle Jets on March 10, 2024. Following a disappointing performance that resulted in a 1-1 draw against Brisbane Roar, Corica expressed concern over the team’s energy levels and opted to reduce training days from five to three this week.

Corica noted that the players appeared “flat” in their previous outing and acknowledged that he may have “overcooked” their training. “Definitely should be going into the game fresher, but I think the boys have taken responsibility as well,” he stated. The coach emphasized the importance of improvement, saying, “I didn’t enjoy the performance – we’ve got to do a lot better.” Despite the draw, Auckland remains the only unbeaten team in the competition, offering a silver lining going into the match against Newcastle.

Players’ Response to Training Changes and Upcoming Match

Following the draw, Corica observed a positive shift in the players’ attitude during training. “I can see from what we’ve done at training, they’re switched on, they’re ready,” he remarked. He highlighted the need for focus, especially after the recent international window, emphasizing that this week’s matchup is crucial. “It’s a massive game for us. It doesn’t matter that they’re down the bottom; they’re still a very good attacking team,” he added.

The Jets have scored nine goals but have also conceded 14, presenting opportunities for Auckland to capitalize on their defensive weaknesses. Lachlan Brook, who scored Auckland’s only goal against Brisbane, acknowledged the team’s collective disappointment. “That wasn’t our best performance,” he stated, adding that a shared sense of accountability exists within the squad. “Even as a group, we went into that changing room and it felt like a loss,” he said.

Brook remains optimistic, stating that the team is confident in their ability to secure a win each week. “When you’re high in confidence, you’ve already got an advantage. We know that we’ve got the team that can win everything,” he explained.

Leadership and Expectations in the Squad

In the absence of injured players Hiroki Sakai and Jake Brimmer, defender Francis de Vries took on the captaincy against Brisbane. He returned to the team after representing the All Whites in the United States, where he played a total of 167 minutes just two days before the match. “The body is OK,” de Vries confirmed, acknowledging the usual fatigue that accompanies professional football.

He expressed an understanding of the pressure Auckland faces after last season’s impressive run to the Premiers Plate. “As a football player, it’s part of your job to accept criticism and learn from feedback,” he noted, reflecting on the team’s current standings with three wins and two draws.

While the Jets have only one win and four losses this season, de Vries cautioned against making assumptions based on early results. “Teams go through patches of form, and you don’t really know what to expect in the first 10 games,” he said. “Their performances have been good, so we’re taking nothing for granted.”

As Auckland FC prepares for this pivotal match, the focus will be on regaining momentum and maintaining their unbeaten streak in the league. With a mix of optimism and determination, the team aims to capitalize on their strengths and secure a vital victory against Newcastle Jets.