Melbourne Victory coach Kevin Muscat believes the secret to success in tomorrow nights clash against Melbourne Heart is to keep his side doing what they’ve done all season.
Muscat, making his derby debut as manager, has set the same expectations on his side this week as he has for every other game this season.
“I’d be disappointed if my players got up for a game more than another. It probably suggests they’re not getting up or not preparing well for the other games,” He said ahead of tomorrow night’s blockbuster derby.
“We’ll be up for this game just as we have been for every other one, and every other game going forward as well.”
Muscat was also quick put the onus on his side to perform, and not get complacent against a struggling Heart outfit.
“If we play anywhere near our best, and that’s through our discipline within our structure, we give ourselves a great chance to go and get a good result tomorrow night.
Although Victory have been anything but goal shy under Muscat (With 11 goals in eight games), the sheer amount of chances created could easily have seen that goal tally doubled.
Last weeks clash against the Glory seemed to have released those frustrations as the Victory took their chances in a 2-0 win. Muscat is hoping his side can retain that cutting edge in front of goal.
“We’ve troubled every team we’ve played in terms of the amount of chances we’ve created and we want to continue that tomorrow night.
“I dare say we’re starting to take some chances as well now.”
As for his counterpart, Heart’s John Aloisi, Muscat admitted he hasn’t had time to feel sorry for the under pressure coach. He admits Aloisi would have a lot on his mind this week, but his main concern should be on his own side.
“John [Aloisi’s] got his team to worry about and I’ve certainly got a group that’s super motivated and had a great week on the track in preparation for what should be an exciting game tomorrow night.”
In other news, Archie Thompson is all but set to start for the Victory with Connor Pain the likely player to drop to the bench.
Melbourne Victory take on Melbourne Heart at AAMI Park this Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30.