After enjoying their best-ever start to an A-League Women’s (ALW) campaign, the Newcastle Jets have grounded to a halt in recent times.
So, January appears to be a “make or break” month for Stephen Hoyle’s charges, especially if they’re determined to play finals football in 2025/26.
On the back of three consecutive losses, the side now sits in ninth spot, only ahead of Sydney FC and the Western Sydney Wanderers.
It’s a far cry from when Newcastle looked settled in the top six.
That followed impressive victories over Canberra United (2-1), Western Sydney (1-0) and the Brisbane Roar (3-0), as well as a 1-all draw with the Wellington Phoenix.
But, a heavy defeat to Melbourne Victory in December has dented the Jets’ confidence.
Suddenly, the team lacks cohesion and is devoid of scoring any goals, despite boasting talented players in Melina Ayres, Kelli Brown, Charlotte Lancaster, Josie Allan, Sophie Hoban, India Breier and Lauren Allan up front.
Newcastle’s hopes rely on the coming weeks, with four games in a fortnight before the bye.
“This month of football is going to really tell our season,” captain Cassidy Davis said.
“If you lose a match, you really drop on the table.
“It’s super tight.
“So, we need to make sure that we’re on every game and we’re recovering well.
“Obviously, the last time we played the Mariners, it wasn’t pretty.
“That’s where our focus must be… an F3 derby at No. 2 Sportsground.
“Then, we’ll concentrate on each match as it comes.”
NEWCASTLE JETS ALW SCHEDULE IN JANUARY
Round 12
- Saturday 10 January
- 5pm: No. 2 Sportsground v Central Coast Mariners
Round 7
- Tuesday 13 January
- 7pm: Leichhardt Oval v Sydney FC
Round 13
- Friday 16 January
- 4.50pm: AAMI Park v Melbourne City
Round 10
- Wednesday 21 January
- 7pm: No. 2 Sportsground v Adelaide United
Round 14
- Bye
For more sports stories:
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- Maitland Magpies ready to swoop again in 2026
- US duo set to lace up boots for Lake Macquarie in NPLW
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