The luxury of playing at home is something we must take full advantage of if we are to continue pushing the ball out wide come February.
This week could potentially make or break our campaign.
Two massively important battles will be fought on our ground, one on Wednesday night against a side which is desperate to continue its holistic revival and the other against our intra city rivals in a contest which previously provided us with the most impressively passionate result in our club's short history.
With clubs in sixth spot through to ninth being separated by only a win, it's vital that we win at least once and take a further point in an effort to scramble clear of the grasping pursuers.
This task is made even more difficult by the fact that we've only scored once in our last five league outings and conceded nine times.
In our first ever Wednesday night contest at home, the heavens threaten to send thunder, lightning and rain crashing down towards the already slick surface at AAMI Park. Ironic considering the rumblings of criticism which have also thrown menacing warnings towards JVS and the players: time to deliver!
The midweek game against Newcastle presents itself as the perfect occasion to obliterate the unimpressive stats and create some much needed momentum and positivity heading into the second derby.
A good result with a goal or three would ease the strain on the club, lifting the massive boulder of expectation from JVS's tanned shoulders and hopefully allow him to slide back into his designer recliner whilst casually sipping on an ice cold Amstel.
Unfortunately the reality of the situation sees JVS sitting upright in a press conference, eyes darting across the room nervously awaiting the next question regarding a slump in form. He accurately summarises the disappointing situation: "We're not scoring. In the first half we were playing okay, we were creating chances and then if you don't score it's difficult."
This week presents a unique opportunity to the players, coaching staff and fans alike; win and feel a sense of security, building character and culture as we continue on our merry way, or feel the burden through lack of results grow.
The season's fate is in our hands...
Time to deliver!
