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Central Coast caretaker coach Alen Stajcic welcomes the challenge of his A-League last-placed side taking on Perth in just his third match in charge.
Central Coast's belief that their new structure can be effective against anyone will get the ultimate test when they host A-League leaders and road kings Perth Glory.
Mariners caretaker coach Alen Stajcic welcomes the challenge of his last-placed side tackling the premiers' plate favourites after just two matches in charge.
The Gosford-based Mariners have won one and lost one under Stajcic but showed a defensive resolve and discipline in their 1-0 home defeat to Adelaide on Sunday which wasn't there earlier in the season..
"There's a belief in the team that our structures and patterns of play can be effective against anyone,'" Stajcic said after the game.
"I've got a lot of belief now that we can keep improving and be competitive."
Glory's only two losses this season were at home to the two teams immediately below, Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory, the latter coming on Saturday.
Tony Popovic's men are unconquered away from home this season, winning seven and drawing four.
Stajcic was enthusiastic rather than daunted at the prospect of facing the formidable Glory.
"I want to play against Perth, they're the benchmark of the competition this year,' Stajcic said.
"Despite losing on Saturday night I thought they were were excellent and probably a touch unlucky to lose 2-0.
"It will be a great test for the team and if you can get through a test like that, that will add even more belief in the team that we're heading down the right path."
Stajcic saw plenty to like about his team despite the loss to the Reds, especially around the defensive aspects of a side that has not kept a clean sheet this season.
The Mariners pushed hard for an equaliser in the latter part of the game despite being a man down from the 72nd minute, when acting captain Jem Karacan was sent off.
"You look back two weeks ago, by the 70th minute against Newcastle we had really faded away in the match, but even with 10 players we kept going till the last minute which was pleasing," he said.
"If we can keep building on that with playing with the ball and being a little more composed on the ball and getting forward in a little bit more creative fashion, then I think we can be a real threat against anyone."
