The PGFC Academy sides are on the road again this weekend as they visit Percy Doyle Reserve in Duncraig to take on bottom of the table side Joondalup United in Week 16 of the Football West NPL.
The first team are on a good run of form having gone unbeaten in their last five games and will head into the game full of confidence. In the first meeting this season in Round 3, the Glory youngsters came from behind to win 4-1, with goals from Daniel Stynes, Jake Brimmer and a brace from Joe Knowles.
They will be looking for a repeat on Saturday to keep in touch with league leaders Bayswater, but Head Coach John Gibson said they need to be wary of a desperate Joondalup side.
“Every game in the NPL is tough and Joondalup are no different. We respect everyone but our focus is our own processes and details while aiming for improvements and consistent performances,” he said.
“Historically, this has been a tough encounter, but we aim to maintain our aggressive mentality and concentrate for 90 plus minutes.”
Gibson was pleased with last week’s win over Balcatta, especially with a number of changes from the previous week’s squad, and he said it showed the depth the squad has this season.
“Last week was an OK performance, and we showed great determination and character to fight back from a 1-2 deficit after half-time to win it.
“We have fantastic self-belief within the whole squad which is pleasing, but there is room for improvement.”
Midfielder Callum Timmins said the Balcatta win was great, as it showed the fighting spirit in the squad, and the Young Socceroo said the 3-2 win showed they are hard to beat and maintain a never-say-die attitude.
“It was a very good comeback, as we switched our style of play in the second half to get back into the game which worked and showed another side of our game,” he said.
“The depth we have this year is unreal with multiple options in different spots, so it creates a lot more competition between the group and has made improvements from our training sessions and game day.”
Timmins said the players are relishing the challenge of senior football, and they are well aware Saturday’s opponents will try and outmuscle them, but they’re ready for it.
“Games against Joondalup, and all teams at the foot of the table, are always tough, and in this league, you can’t underestimate the opposition, as they have experienced players who have played in this league for a number of years,” he explained.
“But we must match them, in physicality and football, and we have done that all season.
“So, the boys are going to have to keep the same mindset that we’ve had the whole season, and no matter what team we are playing, we will be doing all we can to bring back the three points.”
Joondalup United have advised us that it will be free admission to all three games on Saturday – So get to Percy Doyle Reserve and see the future Glory stars in action.
Match Details
Saturday June 9
Joondalup United v PGFC
Percy Doyle Reserve, Duncraig
Kick-off tines
First Team – 3pm
Under 20’s – 1pm
Under 18’s – 11am
#OneGlory
