Western Sydney Wanderers midfielder Mitch Nichols admits his team was punished in its past two draws against Newcastle Jets and Central Coast Mariners.
Nichols was unsure whether the underdog tag suited the Wanderers in the lead-up against a strong Perth Glory outfit which sits fourth on the A-League table on seven points.
Nichols admitted he got the yips in previous games which also cost them a valuable three points.
“(It’s) two games in a row at home we’ve thrown away some points, disappointed, but obviously there’s some good signs there,” Nichols said.
“That’s what the boss has been drumming into us this week, to build on that and to full 90 minutes together.
“We always work on finishing during the week, just really when I get into those positions again, stay clear minded and just take the best option which is probably the last chance I could have squared it for a tap in, so just keep my mind clear and calm.”
Nichols is now part of a trio combination with Japanese import Jumpei Kusukami and Argentine Nicolas Martinez in the front third.
And while the midfield maintains fluidity there is a certain level of ambiguity surrounding Western Sydney’s strike force.
Kerem Bulut was dropped by coach Tony Popovic in last week’s 1-1 draw with the Mariners with veteran Brandon Santalab and debutant Lachlan Scott stepping in.
And while Bulut is now back in the squad for the clash against the Glory, Nichols said it was no excuse for his role as a playmaker and welcomed the changes up front.
“We’ve got three good strikers here, even young Lachie Scott came on and did well so they’re pushing each other and Santa’s really stepped up, probably scored a goal and taken that spot,” he said.
“It’s where the players are, we know what to do and just really give them chances to score, I know they’re all itching to go.
“(The mistakes) it’s all over the park those little things which are costing us at the moment and me not taking the chances, that’s another thing.
“We’re just not changing much and keeping the way we’re going, not make those mistakes and then we won’t get punished for them.”
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