FRIDAY night’s 5-2 home over Brisbane City was probably our most complete home performance of the season.
We conceded what I thought was a poor goal early, but I was really pleased with the reaction from the boys.
We had started well before Brisbane City scored and, rather than dropping our heads, we went straight back at them.
The second half was particularly enjoyable.
It was probably the first time this year we have been able to sit back a little, relax and enjoy the football we were playing.
We created plenty of chances — probably double figures in clear-cut opportunities — and it was great to see the boys put five away.
A lot of what happened on the night came directly from our work at training.
We spent both sessions during the week looking at how we could be better with the ball, create more chances and keep our attacking shape higher up the field.
The players carried that onto the pitch.
I also thought we were much better without the ball.
Our midfield worked really well together and gave us control of the game.
Ryo (Emoto), Massa (Yokoyama) and Luke (O’Sullivan) all played their part, while Zak (Galea) made an important save at 2-1 when Brisbane City’s ball over the top was still causing us some concern.
It was also great to see Jez Lofthouse get on the scoresheet.
He has come back from his season overseas and it takes time to get fit and match sharp again, so hopefully that goal gives him another boost.
I genuinely did not see the incident that led to Brisbane City’s red card, so I cannot offer much on that.
I was following the ball at the other end and only realised something had happened when the boys on the bench reacted.
We have two difficult games left, away to Eastern Suburbs and then at home against Magic.
A top four finish is still possible, but it is not in our hands.
All we can do is make sure we win our games.
The boys have been fantastic all year.
We spoke on Tuesday about the length of the season and how hard they have worked.
Their commitment has never been in doubt, and I hope they get the reward they deserve over these final two matches.
