Fresh off a dominant display in midfield, City star Mathew Leckie reflected on his team’s performance following their 4-0 win over Perth Glory on Saturday evening.
After missing City’s dramatic 2-1 win over Buriram United in the AFC Champions League Elite competition during the week, Leckie was straight back into the starting XI, making an immediate impact bossing the midfield for his team.
Speaking on his return to the side, Leckie said: “Yeah, [I feel] pretty good. I copped a knock against Western Sydney to the knee and it was just swollen.
“So Tuesday was a bit of a quick turnaround and couldn’t make it in time but just rested up and tried to get myself ready for today.”
Leckie played a key part in City’s fast start against the Glory, providing the assist for Max Caputo’s opener. He opened up on his role in midfield following the final whistle.
“It’s, you know, it’s a different role to obviously what I’ve played throughout my career,” Leckie said. “But, you know, I’ve been playing it for a while now and I think I’m more involved in the, I guess, the part of the game where you can really try to control and take over the midfield.”
“I’m happy to play my role. You know, I’m still, obviously with the ball in an attacking position, just without the ball in more of a defensive role.”
With back-to-back wins, City are now unbeaten in three consecutive matches in all competitions.
Speaking on his side’s strong start to the A-Leagues season, the Socceroos star said: “I think Western Sydney was a good start. I think we played quite good for our first game and to draw there is quite good.”
“I think they’re going to be a good side this season, and although we thought maybe we could get something out of it, you leave Western Sydney with a draw and that’s good,” he added.
“I think the boys put in a great performance on Tuesday. And to back it up today, when you knew Perth we’re going to be very physical, very direct.
“And, more than anything, we have to win the battle and control the game. And then, you know, over time, once we did that, we could play on our terms and I think as the as the half went on we started to do that.”
City will be eager to extend their unbeaten run when Aurelio Vidmar’s side turns its attention to a Friday night clash with the Roar in Brisbane. City then head directly to Japan for our next AFC Champions League Elite clash against Machida Zelvia.
