Western Sydney Wanderers coach Tony Popovic is adamant his side’s winless – and goalless – start to their Hyundai A-League existence hasn’t dented confidence.
The Wanderers are parked in bottom place on the ladder with a solitary point ahead of a daunting clash with back-to-back champions Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.
But Popovic has seen enough from his side’s first three outings to believe they are close to breaking their duck and claiming a big scalp.
The Wanderers have been more than competitive so far this season but have come up just short of a victory, however Popovic insists there are no issues with morale in his squad.
“Definitely not with this group, we haven’t had problem with that at all,” Popovic told reporters on Friday before flying out to Brisbane.
“The players know they’ve been performing well. There’s a fine line between getting a result and not and we’re hoping that fine line turns our way on Saturday.
“If we keep getting to those standards … we can obviously keep improving our structures and along the lines of how we want to play.
“If we can do that better then I’m sure things will turn and goals will come.”
Despite their troubles in front of goal, Popovic confirmed striker Dino Kresinger would be rested for the trip north due to a nagging hip injury.
The Croatian has been carrying the knock for the past fortnight and the Wanderers boss has opted to give him a break in the hope he’ll be back to full fitness for their next match.
Former Sydney FC striker Mark Bridge or the versatile Labinot Haliti are likely to assume the striking role against the Roar.
While the pair are different types of players to Kresinger, Popovic said his side’s game plan won’t change.
“The way we play and pass and move will all be the same. Formations can always change but the style will always be the same for us,” he said.
“He’s (Kresinger) been doing his best but he’s not 100 percent and we can see that.
“We want to help him and make sure he clears it up so when he comes back he’s 100 percent like he was in pre-season.”
Asked about the challenge of taking on the Roar, Popovic said: “You’ve got to respect them; they are the champions and have been the benchmark for the last two years in the league.
“They’re still a formidable side with outstanding players all over the place and they play with that confidence and belief of champions.
“They still play that style, their movement on and off the ball is fantastic and they’ve looked solid defensively.
“We know it will be tough but there’s a lot of belief in this squad and belief in this team. It’s a great challenge and one we’re all looking forward too.”
