Newcastle Jets coach Scott Miller said his team’s mid-season revival was due to hard work and the growing influence of his new imports after their 3-2 win over Wellington at Hunter Stadium.
Speaking after the Jets took the three points in a five-goal thriller on Saturday afternoon, Miller stressed there was still a lot of work to be done but was pleased with how his team has responded in recent weeks.
MATCH REPORT: Jets’ Danish striker the hero in five-goal thriller
“The last month has been pretty good. It was a very promising performance all-round,” he told ABC radio.
“I saw a great work ethic to getting the result [today] and that’s most important but ultimately you do things on the training ground and that was replicated today and that was most pleasing.”
Miller wasn’t happy with his troops in the first half as Phoenix lead 2-1 thanks to Hamish Watson’s brace.
“We were too passive in the first half with and without the ball. But to come back from a deficit at half-time is nice.”
Leonardo was a constant threat for the Jets as he becomes fitter and more mobile.
The fiery Brazilian playmaker was at the heart of many good moves for the home side before his late substitution.
And with Nordstand’s double, Miller was effusive in his praise for his foreign stars.
“They’ve arrived here and shown a great maturity and great respect for the club and I think they’re enjoying representing the club.
“They’re linking well but I see more from them in terms of link-up play. But the signs are promising at this point.
“But we mustn’t become complacent. This is only the second consecutive home win since 2013.”
