Following their win over Persija Jakarta on Tuesday night, the Newcastle Jets will be heading to Japan to take on reigning AFC Champions League winners Kashima Antlers in a knockout qualifier for a spot in the group stage.
The Jets dominated majority of the game against Persija Jakarta, and had to go the distance in extra time. They outlasted their opposition physically and scored twice in the extra period.
“I thought we had the game won in the first half, that many chances were created. We either snatched at it or mishit it.
The good thing about this team is they don’t give up,” Ernie Merrick said.
“Then we went hard in the second half and in extra time. We were the ones that survived extra time better than the opposition.”
Fatigue is certainly at the forefront of the coach’s mind, and it’s likely we’ll see heavy rotation in Friday night’s A-League game against Melbourne City in preparation for the knockout qualifier against Kashima Antlers next Tuesday.
“I keep bearing in mind that it was our fifth game in three weeks.
We’ve won three, drawn one, and lost one against Perth away from home so the boys have done really well.
“Friday night against Melbourne City is going to be our under 16 team I reckon. Not many of these boys can play and then go to Japan. We have to leave on Saturday morning after the Friday game at 5:00am,” Merrick said.
Nigel Boogaard, a goalscorer on Tuesday night, noted the significance of having the opportunity to play in the ACL.
“You’re playing Champions League. As a professional footballer in this country, apart from playing in grand finals, it’s the top of the top. As you get older you understand that there’s only a few Champions League Campaigns left in the body,” Boogaard said.
The Jets were the favourite against Persija Jakarta, but Newcastle will play the role of the underdog against reigning ACL champions Kashima Antlers.
“Yes they may be reigning champions from last year, but what a stage to play on. As a footballer these are the games you want to play and you want to test yourself against the best team in Asia.
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Boogaard insisted that fatigue or tiredness is no excuse and expects his teammates to approach the qualifier next Tuesday with complete energy and commitment.
“If you can’t get yourself up for these games and get over whatever niggles or tiredness that’s going on in your body, then you probably need to have a look at yourself.
“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to play in these competitions.”
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