After two wins from two matches to start the season, City midfielder Stefan Mauk says his side are only going to get better as the side becomes more accustomed under Head Coach Warren Joyce.
The 22-year-old – who re-joined the Club in July after stints with Adelaide United and Dutch side NEC – says the squad is still getting used to each other on the park and believes they will continue to improve as the season goes on.
“I think we’ve started the season very well and I feel we’re still gelling together,” Mauk said.
“A lot of players have come in late so it’s now trying to get used to playing with different players. Because we have such a strong squad, there has been changes in formation and personnel but it’s coming together and I think the more time we spend playing with each other, the better we are going to get.
“I guess it’s been a tough start [in terms of opponents] so far but we’re only going to get better from here.”
Eugene Galekovic outlined the emphasis on defence during the pre-season and Mauk echoed his sentiment, saying it’s been an important aspect the squad has needed to add to its game.
“I think the whole pre-season was based around everyone winning their battles and as a team, making sure we are solid and don’t get broken down easily,” he said.
“We’ve copped goals in the past and we know we are going to score so it’s more about conceding less than the opposition. We’ve conceded one on the counter which was disappointing but I think we do spend quite a lot of time being defensively responsible.
“We’re focusing on being defensively strong, we have the quality going forward and it’s working as a team. Everybody can see we’re playing well together.”
Mauk and City now prepare for their third match in Melbourne this Saturday as they face Wellington Phoenix at AAMI Park, kick-off 5.35pm. Click here to secure your tickets to the match and don’t forget to claim your kids go free tickets before you checkout!
