Ugarkovic on City challenge

The Wanderers have adjusted well to life under head coach Mark Rudan who in just under two weeks is set to lead the Red & Black into their third consecutive home match tonight against Melbourne City.

Listen to Steven Ugarkovic’s interview SEN on The Jimmy Smith Show here.

“It’s been pretty hectic last week and a half, obviously a different type of coach (with Mark Rudan) which has been a bit of a change but it’s been good to see that the boys have reacted well,” said Ugarkovic to SEN Radio.

“It’s been a pretty full on week, so I think the boys have reacted well and it’s been quite good.”

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 02: Steven Ugarkovic of the Wanderers controls the ball during the round nine A-League Men’s match between the Western Sydney Wanderers and the Perth Glory at CommBank Stadium, on February 02, 2022, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brett Hemmings/Getty Images)

The frantic February schedule for the Red & Black is an opportunity to pick up points quickly and build some much needed momentum with sights still set on a spot in the 2022 Finals Series.

“(Mark Rudan) came in and stated what he wants from us as a team, but more importantly as a club,” explained Ugarkovic.

“We want to be playing in the Finals at the end of the season.

“We are a bit off it now, but week-by-week we’re just focusing and pushing for that Finals spot.

“Everyone wants to play Finals at the club, it’s been a while and that is our main goal.

“The main goals for us are good performances, hard-work and that will get us the results.”

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 02: Steven Ugarkovic of the Wanderers is tackled by Callum Timmins of Perth during the round nine A-League Men’s match between the Western Sydney Wanderers and the Perth Glory at CommBank Stadium, on February 02, 2022, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brett Hemmings/Getty Images)

The Wanderers will tonight face City and know what to expect from the side, having faced them last month in a chaotic 3-3 draw.

“That was our first game after the COVID break,” said Ugarkovic.

“I thought we performed well, we went up 2-0 at the start in 10 minutes and we played some excellent football. But we did let them back in the game and it shows that in the front third, we got it right that day.

“We did miss a lot of chances towards the end of the game which I thought we could have won.

“But we need to perform well and stick to the task we have bene given.

“We need to work hard, they are a beatable side but they can also beat you in the blink of an eye as they have the quality up top.”

Isuzu UTE A-League
Western Sydney Wanderers v Melbourne City
Friday 11 February 2022
CommBank Stadium, 7:45pm
Watch on Paramount+