Newcastle Jets’ rising star Joe Champness is eager to pile fresh pain on rivals Central Coast Mariners by repeating the F3 Derby thrashing they handed out in the opening round.
Ernie Merrick’s men stunned the Mariners with a 5-1 win in Gosford back in October and have gone on to defy all expectations over the opening half of the season, sitting comfortably in second ahead of Tuesday’s encounter.
Champness marked his maiden Hyundai A-League appearance with a goal in the big win at Central Coast Stadium, setting the platform for an eye-catching debut campaign.
“It was a great feeling [to score] and a great game, a good result,” Champness told reporters.
“We’re looking to emulate that performance.
“We’re going to focus on our game and how we can expose them. Every time we step on the park we’re looking to win and to bring a lot of pride to the town.
“It’s going to bring out the best in us. All the boys are really up for it, we’re really excited and looking forward to it.”
While the arrival of fellow winger Patricio Rodriguez means greater competition for a starting spot, 20-year-old Champness is relishing the opportunity to learn from the likes of the former Santos and AEK Athens attacker.
“It improves everyone as players when everyone is fighting for spots,” he said.
“[Patricio is an] attacking player, light on his feet, very quick feet. He’s going to be a really good addition to the squad.
“Having those types of experienced and quality players around me is great and I’m always looking to learn.”
