Newcastle’s A-League Women’s (ALW) coach Stephen Hoyle believes his side is ready to embrace the pressure of a finals-style run home ahead of this week’s crucial clash with the Brisbane Roar.

It follows the Jets’ first win in a month, a 3-1 result over Sydney FC.

“We had a good break and it was good to get the result,” he said. 

“However, we know there are areas we need to be better at, especially in the second half of games.”

With the ladder tightening and finals spots on the line, Hoyle acknowledged the importance of the match, but states the team is staying grounded in its approach. 

“We want to play finals football and I believe we’ve got a squad that’s good enough to do that,” he told the Newcastle Weekly. 

“At this stage of the season, every game matters – but we’ve got to stay focused on what we do.”

For the Jets, that’s been improving efficiency in both boxes. 

“We create a lot of opportunities,” Hoyle admitted. 

“So, if we can be more clinical and limit chances against us, then we give ourselves a great opportunity to win.” 

That approach will be tested against a Brisbane side – on Friday 20 March – known for both scoring and conceding goals, which could give Newcastle an opportunity if the team is able to execute properly.

“The idea is to be solid defensively and then take our chances when we go forward,” Hoyle said. 

“It’s very likely we’ll stick with same team that played in last week’s win.

“That’s tough on some players who are pushing for selection, but that’s the position we’re in after a good result.”

Among those to impress is Sophie Hoban, with Hoyle praising her growth and impact in a more advanced role. 

“She’s one of the best at what she does,” he said. 

“Her ability to win the ball, create problems and get in dangerous positions is huge for us. 

“I think she could still believe in herself more, she’s sometimes herself a bit of discredit. 

“She is a really active player who can play in the front line or in the midfield.”

The mentor also pointed to the team’s work rate and training standards as a source of confidence leading into the high-pressure match-up. 

“The application is there every day,” Hoyle said.

“What we’re seeing at training is really strong and, over a long period of time, you’ll see good improvement and more outcomes. 

“The stuff I see from Monday to Friday is really good… and I want them to turn that into points this week.

“I’ll take responsibility for the tactical side and then it’s the players’ responsibility from how we train.

“When it was mid-season, I think you can get caught up more overthinking the games.

“Whereas when it gets to this stage, even though the pressure’s more on you, it’s just like a go and do moment. 

“This is the time for action… and it’s about turning that into results on the weekend.” 

With an evening kick-off allowing for a more relaxed build-up, Hoyle says the focus would be on ensuring players are fresh and mentally ready. 

“They’ll have some downtime, a team walk and meetings,” he said. 

“It’s about being prepared but also making sure they’re ready to go when it counts.

“We’ll be ready to play.” 

For more sports stories:

• Coalfields Cup up for grabs when rivals meet in decider
• Jets star Rose to blossom in Scottish Premiership
• Knights’ pathways fire in big weekend across all grades

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