Perth captain Jacob Burns believes his team’s ability to get points away from home will be crucial to the Glory proving themselves Hyundai A-League premiership contenders this year.
So far Perth have picked up a win and a draw from their two away matches this season, both in Melbourne, including a 2-2 draw with Heart on Sunday. That has helped them sit top of the table after four rounds.
Burns, who has been a key player in Glory’s strong start to the campaign, said there was a strong focus this season on closing the gap between the team’s best and worst performances, especially when it came to playing away from home.
“I’ve been extremely happy with the boys. They showed tremendous character today and throughout all pre-season and the start of the season.” Burns said.
“Last season, we were terrible away, and now we are picking up points away, whether it-s a draw or a win. There’s a positive atmosphere among the boys.”
“To be down and out and come back with a point, they have to take some credit for that. We knew we had to make things better. Last year it didn’t really happen for us. We’ve made a definite point of trying to do that on the road, keeping the same kind of home form and making that a fortress over at nib Stadium.”
Coach David Mitchell praised Burns’ form and focus over the first month of the season and believes the midfielder does not get the credit he deserves.
“He gets laminated for his hardness and he is a tough cookie and he stands up to people. But his ability on the ball is a lot people than people realise,” Mitchell said. “That doesn-t get spoken about much.”
“He’s been fantastic. He’s been superb and he leads well by example as captain.”
But Burns played down his influence in the team’s strong form at the moment, saying the key to Perth’s success so far this year was the consistency and depth across the squad.
“I’m as good as the players around me. I think when we are all doing well, it reflects well on me as a player. I try to stick to what I know and what I’m good at and if it’s good enough for Dave and the rest of the team, I’m a happy man,” he said.
