New Zealand is proving to be a happy hunting ground for the Newcastle Jets in 2025/26.
Two trips “across the ditch” have resulted in as many wins, with the A-League Men’s (ALM) side accounting for Auckland FC 2-1 last month.
Then, at the weekend, Mark Milligan’s troops upstaged the Wellington Phoenix 3-1 at Sky Stadium to move into eighth spot on the table.
Newcastle scored three goals in eight minutes – from Eli Adams (50th), Lachie Rose (54th) and Clayton Taylor (57th) – to seal the deal, much to the delight of skipper Kosta Grozos.
“I don’t know what it is,” he said.
“Of course, winning here’s good; however, we enjoy it anywhere.
“We’re a young group who sometimes struggle to find that extra bit to win.
“But, we showed we can play good football and do the dirty stuff as well.
“I’m very happy for the lads.
“We had plenty of chances in that first half but just couldn’t capitalise.
“However, we stuck to our game plan and produced a good performance in the second 45.”
Grozos admitted the key was repeating the dose against Sydney FC at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday 20 December from 5pm.
“It’s about consistency,” he said.
“We had a chat among the boys during the week to really focus… and try to get results playing good football.
“So, nothing will change.
“That’s our goal this weekend and the week after that.”
The Jets are now only outside the top six on goal difference.
But, the club is anxiously awaiting a fitness report on experienced midfielder Max Burgess, who grabbed at his right groin in the second minute.
He attempted to continue; however, he needed to be substituted by Adams.
“It’s just a groin strain,” Milligan said.
“I’m not sure really of the severity yet.
“He’ll get scans when we get back to Newcastle.”
For more sports stories:
- Winners and losers from 2026 NEWRL draw
- Jets’ brutal burst brings down Phoenix in ALM
- Jets ‘roar’ in impressive return to ALW winner’s circle
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