Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Season Closed - ACL Open

Well. Let me just say it would be all too easy for me to write yet another article highlighting the Jets failure on Sunday, Failure this season, or failure in with the looming transfer window closing. So I won't, instead I'm going to try and take the highlights.

Tarek Elrich - What a season this young man has had. Whether it has been at left back or the left side of midfield he has excelled. It could be noted that his defensive game has suffered slightly because of the increased attacking focus. However despite this people must remember that this is what is required from him in GVE's formation both at the back as a wing back or as an attacking mid fielder. His selection in the up coming Asian Cup Qualifier is just reward for a top season, lets just hope he isn't the next player to be poached by Asia or another A-league club.

Marko Jesic - What can I say, this kid is going to be class. His technique is the best i can see out of all the young strikers (ha ha, see Matt Simon for the biggest gap in technique), he works hard and despite being seemingly injury prone he is definitely one for the future.

Ben Kantarovski - I don't think I really need to say anything. Look at any one of his performances, and then think he's only 16, enough said! Good on you Son!

Jobe Wheelhouse - I'm sure no one who frequents Newcastlefootball.net read this, but his treatment on that forum is unacceptable. Yes he has under performed in the past, but he has been outstanding in either the back 4 or in the holding midfield role. He is solid, he is a local boy and he has a heart, something the Jets have been lacking this year. Lets hope his good form continues, and the his treatment by the 'fans' improves.

The Squadron - Apart from the above mentioned treatment of Wheelhouse the Squadron have been consistent and outstanding in their support this year. There has been plenty of controversy, but like they say, any publicity is good publicity (Ian you should appreciate this). My case in point is that on Sunday, away from home, in a dead rubber, they still managed to make themselves heard throughout the SFS and it was brilliant. Even down 4 nil they gave the boys a send off and shouldn't be under estimated!

The Physical Stadium - I'm not sure when development is supposed to be finished, but even the two corners that have been completed are top quality, with the other two being done currently. This will give the Jets a home ground they can be proud of. (I could say how poorly they continue to be treated by ground management but I said only positive!)

The Transfer Fees - If your going to lose players, you should be compensated. The Jets have at least managed this much this year and with some smart investment decisions should be able to reap the benefits!

The Future - Given the terrible year, and being a loyal fan, it is hard to think it can get much worse. I'm looking forward to at least some signings, big names or not, being announced before the end of January. With the amount of young talent coming through, a few experienced names should be all we need to get back in the game!

As an aside, with more to follow later in the week maybe, I think we're looking at a Melbourne Adelaide grand final. The Central Coast aren't good enough, Melbourne are, and the Roar can't grind out results, and Adelaide can.

So to close, for now, I'd like to say, heads up Jets fans keep supporting your team even through the tough times. Hopefully some news later in the week.

Yours in Football
B!

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