Jets' Grounded Approach to Away Games
The Newcastle Jets are soaring at the summit of the A-League ladder, having secured a remarkable five consecutive victories. Despite this impressive run, the club is taking deliberate steps to ensure the team remains focused and physically prepared, with a strategic travel plan designed to minimise disruption and maximise performance.
Strategic Road Trip for Adelaide and Perth Clashes
Facing back-to-back away fixtures against Adelaide United this Sunday and Perth Glory on Friday, February 13, the Jets have opted for an unconventional approach. Instead of returning to Newcastle between matches, the squad will remain on the road for an entire week. This decision is a calculated move to reduce travel fatigue and enhance recovery.
After the Adelaide encounter, the team will stay in South Australia for an additional day to allow for proper recuperation before flying to Western Australia on Tuesday. This adjusted itinerary results in a significant reduction in travel time and distance. The Jets will spend eight fewer hours in the air and cut their travel distance by a substantial 5,940 kilometres, from 9,568 to just 3,628 over the seven-day period.
Club Investment and Player Support
This extended road trip represents a notable investment by the Newcastle Jets, demonstrating the club's commitment to supporting the players' physical and mental well-being. Fullback Daniel Wilmering expressed appreciation for the club's backing, noting the challenges of long-distance travel on short turnarounds.
"Both Adelaide and Perth are long travel trips. It can be hard on the body, especially on a short turnaround," Wilmering said. "Staying over there will be good physically."
An expanded squad will undertake the journey, with captain Kosta Grozos and recent signing Zach Clough expected to join the travelling group after participating in training sessions this week.
Historical Context and Current Form
Historically, Adelaide and Perth have posed significant challenges for the Jets. Newcastle has managed only seven wins from 29 visits to Coopers Stadium and four victories from 27 trips across the Nullarbor to face Perth. However, the team's recent away form has been exceptional, with five consecutive wins on the road against Western Sydney Wanderers, Melbourne City, and Auckland FC (twice), as well as Wellington Phoenix.
Coach Mark Milligan attributes part of this success to the squad's ability to maintain structure and minimise distractions while travelling. Wilmering echoed this sentiment, highlighting the benefits of team bonding during extended trips.
"Being able to bond with your teammates always helps on the pitch," he remarked. "It will be a good week away."
Maintaining Focus Amidst Success
The Jets, initially predicted to be mid-table contenders despite their Australian Cup victory, have emerged as one of the A-League's standout teams. They boast the league's best record over the past month and are playing an attractive, attacking style of football. Two more victories would bring their total to 11 wins, a tally that has secured finals qualification in four of the last five seasons.
Wilmering emphasised the importance of staying grounded and avoiding complacency. "It can be hard not to get caught up in it," he admitted. "It is important that we don't look too far ahead. We have to take it game by game. Every week is a new challenge."
The team's defensive improvements have been particularly noteworthy. After conceding 22 goals in the first 10 rounds, they have allowed just four in the past five matches. Wilmering credited this turnaround to diligent training and attention to detail from the coaching staff.
Upcoming Challenge Against Adelaide
Adelaide United, currently fifth on the ladder with 23 points and unbeaten in four matches, presents a formidable opponent. Wilmering acknowledged the intimidating atmosphere at Coopers Stadium but stressed the need for the Jets to stick to their game plan.
"Adelaide is a really good stadium and the atmosphere is always good," he said. "The crowd is like a 12th man for them. It's important not to buy into it and play the way we play."
As the Jets embark on this crucial road trip, their strategic travel approach and focused mentality will be put to the test. The club's investment in player welfare and performance optimisation could prove pivotal in their quest to maintain their position at the top of the A-League table.
