Anthony Caceres is approaching the second leg of Semi Finals with optimism and energy as his side prepares to face the Mariners one last time. The challenge that awaits will be no easy feat, but the midfielder is grateful for the second chance to showcase what the team can achieve.
“We get another chance. Another bite at it. It [two Semi Final matches] gives us another chance we don’t want to pass up,” he shared.
Sydney FC narrowly went down last Friday night to the Mariners at Allianz Stadium in the opening leg of semi finals. Despite being a nine man show, thanks to two send offs, the valiant effort displayed by the Sky Blues retained only a one goal loss, meaning the aggregate score sits at 2-1. In preparation for this weekends match-up Ufuk Talay’s squad have been focusing on maintaining their enthusiasm and energy in spite of their unfortunate loss to injuries and suspensions.
“We have reviewed the game and gone over it,” said Caceres.
“We know that the performance isn’t what we expected. We performed better this year and are capable of much more.
“This week has been about getting back to our principles, having a lot of energy and a lot of enthusiasm, having intensity in our press and being clinical.
“It has been tough week, but I am sure it is going to get us back on track and back to what we do best.
“There has been plenty of drive and belief because even with the circumstances having gone down to nine, we retained a decent scoreline.
“We are only one goal behind going into the second leg so there is plenty of time to get back into the contest,” said the 31 year-old.
The Harbour City club will miss Jack Rodwell and Corey Hollman after they were each shown a red card last week. Rodwell whose yellow card was upgraded to a red following a VAR decision, will miss this weekend’s showdown and the Grand Final if the Sky Blues make it through.
Hollman who received two yellow cards will only miss this Saturday’s game but will be allowed to compete in any subsequent game. Caceres who has praised Hollman in the past for his contribution to the team, is sad to see his teammates absence, but is confident that the squad has built enough trust to overcome the test.
“We train in a way that strives to have everyone at a certain level – a level that when they are called up, they are ready to step into the game and deliver.
“We have full trust in the players that are available to come in and there is a lot of quality still left in the side.
“The absences are key losses for us. Corey who has played the majority of games and we know the quality that Jack has. It is about trust and the work that we do in the week,” he said.
Hoping to play in their eighth Grand Final, the Harbour City club have beaten the Mariners two times this season.
Determined to play their own game, the Sky Blues will keep to their high press and energetic style of play, rather than shifting their position to suit the Central Coast style.
“For us, it isn’t about counteracting the Mariners – it is about what we do. We have proven that when we actually execute the game plan properly and we play the game with the intensity required, we can get the desired result.
“We have gone and done it previously this season… it is a new game and a new challenge, and one that we will need to embrace if we want the win and to progress,” Caceres said.
“Whatever my role will be, I will fully embrace and look to make a difference.”
Anthony Caceres thoughts on the role he will play during this critical match.
Venturing to enemy territory, the Sky Blues will play at Industree Group Stadium. Whilst it won’t be their usual fortress, Caceres is prepared to take it in his stride and approach it with positivity.
The midfielder is looking forward to the full house despite the heavy presence of Mariners fans and members.
“It is a beautiful venue to play football. It will be great to see a full house there. It is a great occasion, and that can only drive the intensity of the game to make for a better spectacle of football.
“It is the best feeling when it is a packed house, whether they are with you or against you. It just makes it feel like a real football game.
“They are the games you want to play. The more you play, the further into your career you will go. I am looking forward to it,” he concluded.
You can cheer on Anthony and the Sydney FC squad via the details below.
Match Details: Sydney FC v Central Coast Mariners Isuzu UTE A-League Semi-Final Leg Two Saturday 18th May, 2024 Industree Group Stadium, Gosford, NSW
Kick Off: 7:45PM, Broadcast Live: Paramount+ and 10PLAY, Tickets: Click Here
