It may be easier said than done, but Melbourne City FC fullback Jason Hoffman feels his side simply need to turn promising performances into results.
With one win in seven matches, Hoffman believes his side has deserved more from its opening encounters, but a different approach in mentality is required if the side is to turn its early form around against Wellington Phoenix this Sunday.
Despite working incredibly hard on and off the field, Hoffman believes he and his teammates need to be more intelligent in their approach to matches.
“I believe that the team doesn’t necessarily need to work harder, but work a lot smarter and I believe the results will turn around for us,” Hoffman said.
“We feel as a group, we haven’t played anywhere near what we should [have] and one win from seven is unacceptable.
“[We are] trying to make the wrong things right and we’re probably not far off, but not far off is not good enough.”
Melbourne City FC have been unable to capitalise on a range of commanding performances this season. However, Hoffman is adamant that the team’s plans for improvement will turn its season around.
“The best way for the Club to turn things around is to look forward,” Hoffman said.
“I think there is still a lot we can improve on which is a good thing. If I felt like we’ve hit our peak and we still weren’t getting results, then I’d be extremely worried.
“But when there’s more room for improvement and there are players still to come back into the squad.”
The side travels to Wellington this weekend in an important battle that could see Melbourne City FC not only close the gap on the top four, but could kick-start a revival.
“This weekend is a huge opportunity for us,” Hoffman said.
“If a good result goes our way this week, we can bridge that gap to Wellington and it’ll leave us in touch with that top four.
“It started our run [last season] when we had that great win in Wellington and it gives us confidence for this week.”
Melbourne City FC will look to get back into the winner’s circle when they face the Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand this Sunday, kick-off 3pm Melbourne time.
