In three games for the young Jets in the NPL Northern NSW so far this season, the results have been superb.
Two wins, against Charlestown and Lakes, plus a draw with Edgeworth has Newcastle sitting in third place after five rounds.
A bye and a washout have halted the momentum of the young side so far this season, and Sunday afternoon’s clash with Weston will mark the first opportunity for the boys to play on back-to-back weekends.
SQUAD: Ernie’s men for Sunday in Perth
The ability to grind out victories and cultivate that winning mentality has been marked as a crucial step in development for these young footballers, and that progress has been on full display so far this season.
Last weekend’s tight, nervy 1-0 win over a determined Lakes outfit was the latest example – but earlier results include holding onto the lead in a 3-1 win to Charlestown, and coming from behind to draw 2-2 with Edgeworth.
One of three sides to remain undefeated so far this NPL Northern NSW season, Sunday presents a hefty challenge for the Jets.
Weston have won two, drawn one, and lost one so far this season and are looking a decent side under new boss, Kew Jaliens.
The former Jets defender has earned plaudits for the style of football his boys are playing, and it’ll be an intriguing match-up come Sunday afternoon.
Team news
Due to travel west with the Hyundai A-League side for the weekend’s clash with Perth, Angus Thurgate won’t play a role in the clash with Weston.
He wasn’t missed particularly in last weekend’s win over Lakes, with Jack Simmons continuing his fine, early-season form with an assist and a clinic in the midfield.
Tom Beecham wore the armband last weekend with the absence of his defensive partner, Kieran Hayes through injury but the latter could make his return on Sunday.
He made his way back into full training at the back end of last week and with another seven days on the paddock under his belt, Hayes might rate his chances at returning to the starting XI.
