While a spot in the A-League finals remains a mathematical chance for Macarthur FC, head coach Mile Sterjovski has challenged his players to play for pride, vowing to finish the season as strong as possible.
While results need to go the way of the Bulls, Sterjovski is aiming to win the last two games of the regular season before letting fait dictate the rest, beginning with three points on the road to cellar dwellers Melbourne Victory on Sunday.
“We definitely want to finish off the season strong so we are looking to win the match,” Sterjovski said. “We know it is going to be a difficult game for us, I believe Victory are a well-coached team.”
The former Socceroo has thrown the challenge to the players to raise the intensity after coming close to sealing what would have been an impressive comeback against Newcastle Jets last week, after a solid showing against the Wanderers the week prior.
“Attacking the game with the right attitude, putting in the effort and playing quality football, that’s always been the message to the boys,” Sterjovski said. “I think we have lacked consistency this season.”
The Bulls were boosted by the re-signing of young defender Ollie Jones midweek after the 20-year-old sealed a two-year contract extensions following his breakthrough into the A-League.
“Ollie Jones is a great talent,” Sterjovski said. “He’s taken his opportunity really well and I see him having a very bright future and I look forward to coaching him next season.”
The Bulls face Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park on Sunday afternoon at 3pm. Broadcast is live on 10Bold and Paramount+.