September 4, 2023...Preview: 'Massive Game' Admits Nash as Crunch Playoff Push Continues in Halifax (from York United website)
PREVIEW: 'MASSIVE GAME' ADMITS NASH AS CRUNCH PLAYOFF PUSH CONTINUES IN HALIFAX It's a six-pointer for The Nine Stripes in their quest to reach the promised land. THE BREAKDOWN Last week, York United rebounded to put themselves into playoff consideration by defeating Vancouver FC at home. This afternoon in Nova Scotia, The Nine Stripes have to repeat the dose on the road in Nova Scotia against Halifax Wanderers to slingshot their campaign. Martin Nash's squad can draw inspiration from their strong away performances this season, including their impressive 3-0 victory at the Wanderers Grounds back in May. "It was a very good performance. I think we didn't give them a lot of chances and we were able to create a lot so that was really good," The Gaffer reflected on that win and performance. "It's not easy to go out there and win three-nil. Even at that time, I think they were undefeated. So, we needed that at that time and we need this one as well. We're going to go there with the same mindset. We know it's not going to be easy, but I believe in my guys and the ability they have." Currently, York United sit sixth in the CPL standings but three points behind their hosts. That is huge motivation for the lads to win and tie on points. Nash explains the importance of this tie and how it is likely to impact their season. "It's really important, obviously, because we can tie them on points and put ourselves right back in the thick of it. I think we're there, we're close but a win would be massive. So, it's a massive game. Like I said, at the post-game press conference, now we have six cup finals left. Each game has to be treated as a cup final because they're all very important if you want to get into the playoffs." At home, Wanderers have seven wins, one draw, and two defeats. Also, Patrice Gheisar’s side have won their last two matches accounting for Vancouver and Valour. Nash added: "I won’t say I'm worried. I think they're a talented team. They've got some really good players and upfront, they have got two midfielders that are good at getting possession. They can do a lot of things. With the ball they're good in transition, they can overload you well and attack. Every team in this league can hurt you in certain ways and there are always ways that you can hurt them. So, we have to be aware of their strengths and see if we can take advantage of their weaknesses." York United will welcome back striker Osaze De Rosario who has served a one-month suspension for an anti-doping rule violation. Ridwan Ibrahim Asante OPPONENT WATCH: HFX Wanderers have trio Daniel Nimick, Joao Morelli and Massimo Ferrin are the club's joint top scorers with four goals. They have lost one, won four and drawn one in their last six Canadian Premier League matches. Wanderers have amassed 32 points in 21 matches. Patrice Gheisar’s side are on a three-match unbeaten streak with a 2-1-0 record.back to 2023 York United FC menu
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