North Queensland Fury coach Ian Ferguson denies his squad is feeling the pressure despite admitting the club’s Round 22 Hyundai A-League clash with Central Coast at Bluetongue Stadium could make or break their finals chances.
North Queensland is sitting second last, but just one win out of the top six.
“I think everybody understands the importance of this game and what it means to us,” Ferguson said.
“Last time we played the Mariners they were eight points ahead of us, now we’re level pegging with them so we’ve got a chance to go down there and actually jump them.”
With six games to play in the Fury’s inaugural season, the fiery Scot has set his charges a target of claiming at least 10 of the remaining 18 points on offer.
“I’ve always said we would be competitive for the club and for the players and the supporters,” he said.
“I don’t want to disappoint (anyone) by saying we will (definitely) be in the top six, I would never say that.”
“What I will say is we will compete to try and be in that top six and we’ll take it one game at a time.”
Ferguson will stay with the same side that pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory over Melbourne for the upcoming Central Coast clash.
There’s no denying the Mariners are under pressure after slumping to five straight losses, but Ferguson isn’t focusing on that.
“I think that’s probably the worst record in A-League history, but look we’re not concentrating on that,” Ferguson said.
Midfielder Jason Spagnuolo is wary the Fury could cop the backlash from the Mariners’ horror streak.
“Central Coast are doing it tough but it makes them dangerous,” the 25-year old said.
“They have had a few losses in a row and it’s going to be a very tough game down there and I’m sure the boys know that and we’re going to give it everything to take the points.”
The two clubs have met twice this season, the first resulting in a draw (1-1) at Bluetongue Stadium and the most recent seeing the Mariners thrash the Fury (5-1) at Dairy Farmers Stadium.
