Western United head coach Mark Rudan said it’s been a strong week on the training track with his boys focussed on returning to winning ways.
Rudan spoke to media on Saturday afternoon in Williamstown ahead of Sunday’s massive Victorian derby against Melbourne Victory.
“There’s been an emphasis on the attacking third this week at training,” Rudan said of the Round 9 clash at GMHBA.
“They [the players] got together and self-reflected during the week and some good, honest truths came out.
“And they want to lift their standards. I can’t fault their attitude and work ethic. But certainly, they are under no illusion how big the game is tomorrow.”
Victory is on eight points sitting outside the six in ninth while United remain in fifth on 10 points. Three games without a win have sharpened the intensity and desire to rediscover their winning mojo.
The derby lifted off in spectacular fashion in round 4 with a cracking five-goal thriller at Marvel last month.
United, two goals down inside the first 10 minutes reorganised and rejuvenated to draw level at half-time. Then a famous Scott McDonald goal in the second half helped them to all three points.
“There’s been a bit of talk about what we were able to achieve that night.
“And we want to try to replicate that week in week out… it’s not through a lack of trying,” Rudan said.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Western United’s next home game is against Melbourne Victory on Sunday, December 8 at GMHBA Stadium, Geelong. Kick-off is 4:00 pm.
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