After producing another man of the match performance, Max Burgess is keen to see the Newcastle Jets evolve “even further” in 2025/26.
Mark Milligan’s outfit moved a step closer to its maiden ALM premiership, and an Asian Champions League Elite berth, following a thrilling 2-1 victory over Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium on Sunday.
The triumph – thanks to goals to Kota Mizunuma and a 94th minute effort from Ben Gibson – also enabled the side to maintain a four-point buffer from Auckland FC at the top of the table.
But, it wasn’t just the win which impressed Burgess, it was Newcastle’s ability to deal with the pressure after a last-round loss.
The Sky Blues launched assault after assault on the Jets.
However, they remained resolute, even with young guns Clayton Taylor, Daniel Wilmering and Eli Adams watching on from the sideline.
“That was a massive [effort],” the 31-year-old said.
“They threw so much at us in the second half.
“We had to sort of suffer a lot.
“I thought we were still brave with the ball in hard moments.
“But, I’m just proud of the boys who came off the bench… and won us a game in the end.
“You could see how much it meant to everyone.
“There’s a real collective energy, a real selflessness about this group.
“Matches get won in moments.
“The offside trap and the way Gibbo (Gibson) stuck it [ball] in during stoppage time were two such instances.
“They’re big moments… so we celebrate them as a team.”
Burgess admitted the job wasn’t over yet, even with four rounds remaining.
“It’s great to be in the position we’re in,” he said.
“However, nothing changes for us.
“It is the same ethos we’ve had all season… getting better every day, going into training with the right attitude, doubling down on our effort and continually improving.
“That will be the focus again for the boys.”
Newcastle faces Macarthur FC away on Thursday 2 April, before clashes with Adelaide United (home – 11 April), Melbourne Victory (AAMI Stadium – Friday 17 April) and Central Coast Mariners (McDonald Jones Stadium – Saturday 25 April).
For more sports stories:
- Newcastle Hunter Rugby League unveils 2026 draw
- Four-time world champion Mark Richards honoured in new Newcastle exhibition
- Jets win thriller to close in on ALM premiership
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