Congratulations to Ian Ferguson, his coaching team and the players of Perth Glory for showing the resolve to keep battling on Saturday night and overcome a spirited Wellington Phoenix, and move one game away from a Grand Final.
At the start of this season, we stated that Perth Glory would make the finals and once they did anything was possible. We will admit we did not expect them to finish third, with so many new players coming in, – our prediction was fifth. Ian Ferguson has assembled a strong squad that has gelled at the right time and the momentum that they currently have it would be a brave man to bet against them overcoming the Central Coast Mariners. Should they do so, a Grand Final is all about who wants it most on the day, and that is where this side may well have the edge.
The coaching team at Perth Glory have done a superb job of keeping the players focussed and limiting their involvement in distractions away from the pitch. and that has brought together a strong unified group.
Regrettably many of those who played a part in the magnificent victory over Wellington Phoenix on Saturday night will have played their last game in Perth Glory colours. It is now up to the coaching staff to make sure that these players maintain their professional attitude and sign off in the best way possible, by showing that they are players the club should not be in a hurry to discard, if they want continued success. Certainly if, as the owner stated he wants to compete successfully in the Asian Champions League.
Whatever the outcome on Saturday night well done to all concerned on their performance, also for the style of football that they played at times this season. It was undoubtedly the best witnessed at NIB Stadium for many a year.
