The Newcastle Jets have defeated the Wellington Phoenix 3-2 in an entertaining A-League affair at Hunter Stadium.
Import Morten Nordstrand was the main destroyer for the Jets with two well taken strikes in his finest display since arriving in the January transfer window.
Wellington had a two-goal hero of their own in Hamish Watson, but he spoiled his afternoon after kicking the ball away and earning himself a second yellow card from referee Chris Beath.
Newcastle will now look to build on this display and continue their run towards the top six, while it is likely that Wellington’s season is now over as far as the finals are concerned.
Mark Birighitti – 6: Not his most solid display for the Jets and would be disappointed with his contribution to Wellington’s second goal.
Jason Hoffman – 6: Pushed on well from his right-back birth but he was not overly influential on proceedings.
Daniel Mullen – 6: Distributed the ball well forward but was caught out of position defensively on a number of occasions.
Nigel Boogaard – 6: He played well himself, but did not lead his troops with his usual authority. He will likely be upset at his performance this week.
Lachlan Jackson – 5: Was caught out of position for the Nix’s second goal and struggled to move the ball forward on most occasions. It would not surprise if Nick Cowburn gets his place back for next week’s derby against the Mariners.
Steven Ugarkovic – 7: Provided some quality service going forward and is crucial for the Jets transition play. Has been another good piece of January business by Scott Miller.
Cameron Watson – 5: In this week due to necessity and probably did not do enough to justify retaining his place next weekend.
Leonardo – 7: Was at the centre of all the Jets positive attacking forays. Played a wonderful ball in the lead up to the Durante own goal. Was one of the Jets better performers.
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Enver Alivodic – 7: Started slowly but he came on as the match progressed. In a good run of form at the moment.
Morten Nordstrand – 9: Again one of the better players for the Jets and looked dangerous in the front third. He has been a superb January acquisition for the Jets. He took his goals beautifully and gives the Jets an extra dimension.
Milos Trifunovic – 6: Was not one of his finer performances for the Jets but it was more down to the lack of quality service for the big man than anything he did himself.
Substitutes
Mitch Cooper – 6: Came on late and worked hard to ensure the Jets stayed in front until the end.
Nick Cowburn – 7: Came on for Cameron Watson and played better than the former Adelaide man and justified his cameo.
Ryan Kitto – N/A: Entered the fray too late to influence the result.
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