Besart Berisha admits it’s vital Melbourne Victory can snap their winless run against Sydney FC to gain a psychological boost ahead of the Hyundai A-League Finals Series.
Last season’s grand finalists square off tonight at AAMI Park in the traditional Australia Day Big Blue between two of the competition’s fiercest rivals.
It’s the Sky Blues who have enjoyed the recent meetings between the two clubs, winning the last five including the epic 2016/17 Season decider.
“If you’re losing every game, then of course the chances are less to achieve and win a trophy – that’s very normal,” Berisha said ahead of tonight’s blockbuster Big Blue.
“It’s a new game, a new opportunity and we are ready. I agree, if you keep losing against Sydney then the chances are less to win something.
“Everything is still possible in the season and we are very motivated. We want to try to win the game and we will just enjoy the moment, the way we play and hopefully we can continue that [against Sydney FC], keep the momentum and play good football.”
Despite his phenomenal record in the Hyundai A-League, Berisha has copped criticism in some circles for his lack of goals and patchy form so far this season.
He answered those critics with a goal and an assist in the win over Western Sydney Wanderers last weekend, and a big game against the defending champions is the type of contest that brings out his best.
Asked about the recent criticism over his form, Berisha said: “I believe I’ve been doing my job, which is required in this situation. I always go 100% in every game,”
“I’m always very focused and try to help the team and the club. Sometimes it just doesn’t work, but the most important thing for me is to pick up points and win games.”
Asked what Victory need to do to beat the league-leading Sky Blues, Berisha said Victory must be at their very best.
“We have to be 100%. We saw even the first game we played against Sydney, we lost 1-0 at home – we did play our good game, but I don’t think it was 100%. We need to be at our best level,” he said.
“It’s a tough opponent and they’re doing great in the season. We are hungry, we want more – it’s a great opportunity and challenge and we are really looking forward to it.
“Because this is a special game that everybody wants to play. We are ready.”
