The F3 derby has always been a fiery clash and Newcastle Jets striker Roy O’Donovan expects nothing less in this weekend’s instalment.
The Jets are coming off a solid 1-1 home performance to Sydney FC and will be looking to build on that this Saturday night against the Central Coast Mariners.
“We were structured, we stuck to the game plan, and it was the first time in a few weeks that we felt in control of the game,” O’Donovan said.
“We were a bit unlucky, this week can we go one better, learn from the mistakes and hopefully get the right result.”
Although the Jets are out of finals contention, O’Donovan believes it is still important to keep working hard until the end of the season and build momentum that will carry into the next campaign.
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“If we can finish these last five games strong, it’ll be a good end to the season,” O’Donovan said.
O’Donovan was a standout in last week’s draw with Sydney FC, calmly slotting home a penalty in the 59th minute, bringing his tally to 6 for the season.
The striker has urged supporters to get behind the team as they look to go one step further this Saturday.
“Building on Sydney FC last game out, there is plenty to be optimistic about and if they can come and drive us on, I’m sure we can get a positive result,” O’Donovan said.
O’Donovan is looking forward to a fierce match-up against his former club and has welcomed the verbal onslaught from traveling Mariners’ supporters.
“That extra bit of pressure seems to bring you to a new level and I hope it’s no different this weekend,” O’Donovan said.
“I hope they bring the negative songs, the banners, because that’s what football’s all about.”
O’Donovan is off-contract at the end of the season but has shown no signs that his career is coming to an end.
“The manager wants me here and sees me playing a part and that’s a positive,” he said.
“I go on as long as it feels good, right now it feels good, I haven’t missed a day of training, I’ve been available for every game, I’m feeling quick, I’m feeling strong.”
