On August 2, Beijing time, the 21st round of the Chinese Super League (CSL) ushered in a key match, in which Meizhou Hakka will face the powerful Tianjin Jinmen Tiger at home. Before the match, Meizhou Hakka head coach Ristic attended the press conference together with foreign aid John Marley, and had an in-depth exchange of views on the preparation for the match, analysis of the opponents and the team's status.
Ristic: Going all out for the win
In the release, Ristic began by reviewing the team's performances in the previous games and pinpointing the areas where the team needs to improve. "For the preparation of the game, the first thing we need to do is to eliminate the bad and stupid things we showed in the previous games and try not to let them happen again. At the same time, we need to show the good aspects of the game to the fullest so that those positives cover those deficiencies."
Facing the upcoming match against Tianjin Jinmen Tigers, Ristic expressed full importance. "The importance of this game cannot be overstated and we know it will be a tough matchup. Tianjin Jinmen Tigers are a very strong team, stronger than the two Qingdao opponents we faced in the first two games. The fact that we only got one point from the first two games makes us realize even more that we have to fight hard for more points in tomorrow's game."
Ristic is confident when it comes to the advantages of playing at home. "Returning to play at home with the support of our fans will be a big advantage for us. According to our past record against strong teams, we are confident to beat Tianjin Jinmen Tigers at home tomorrow. Of course, what I value more than anything else is whether or not the players can give their best in the game. If the team is able to do their best and win, it will be the credit of the players; if the team loses, I am willing to take all the responsibility as the head coach."
Lastly, Ristic also made a heartfelt appeal to the fans. "I would like to say to our fans that the atmosphere and the morale that we bring to the team is completely different with and without you. I hope you can come and support us tomorrow, your support will be our biggest motivation. Thank you all!"
John Marley: Following through on coach's request to get through this together
Outside back John Marley also expressed his determination in the release. "Hello everyone! The players know up and down the line that we are in a very difficult and very crisis moment. But what we have to do now is to be united and really carry out the requirements of the coaching staff into the game. I believe that if we work together, we will be able to overcome the difficulties in front of us."
John Marley's speech was short and powerful, showing his sense of responsibility and mission as a member of the team. Together with Ristic, he injected strong confidence and motivation into the Meizhou Hakka team and prepared them well for the upcoming matches.
