Words: Staff Writers
Image: Moreton Bay United FC

Moreton Bay United defender Matthew Byrne believes the Jets backline are beginning to gel into a formidable unit ahead of tonight’s clash with Western Pride.

Jets are seeking their third straight win in all competition’s when they host the out-of-sorts Pride – a result that will return the defending Premiers to the top four.

However, for Byrne, improving returns for the club’s new look backline – which sees central defender Scott Stewart as the only carry-over from last year’s success – remains the priority.

“I think we’re slowly gelling. It was always going to take a little time to settle down,” Byrne explained.

“We have had a few injuries which have chopped and changed things, but I think as a whole unit we’re starting to defend a little better.”

Jets have only conceded via own goals in their past two outings in the both the league and Westfield FFA Cup, with Byrne saying the team’s first clean sheet since March is just a matter of time.

“You can tell from the last two games (against Sunshine Coast FC and Capalaba FC) we’ve stopped the opposition players from scoring.”

“But clean sheets are always your number one. If you don’t concede a goal you don’t lose the game.”

The 23-year-old linked up with Jets from Olympic during the off-season and said he is enjoying the growing understanding with fellow Jets newcomers Reyze Kelly, Sebastian Kalos and Raymond Schultz, as well as goalkeeper Matthew Stein.

“I’m realty enjoying playing with everyone along the back line. We have a lot of players who can come in and the standard doesn’t drop, but going forward I hope we can settle on a back four.”

Jets will be considered strong favourites for the clash against Pride, with the Ipswich-based club yet to defeat Jets in six previous attempts since 2013.

PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues 2016

Sunday, May 8
Wolter Park, Moreton Bay
Kick-off at 6:00PM