Leif Smerud believes Crystal Palace have a “fantastic opportunity” as they face Aston Villa in the Barclays WSL at Sutton on Sunday (14:00 GMT).
Crystal Palace face a crucial clash against a team just one spot above them in the table, with a chance to cut the gap to a single point.
In their previous meeting, Palace were seconds away from securing a draw before a late Villa goal snatched the points. With both sides fighting to avoid relegation, Leif Smerud understands the significance of his third game in charge.
“It’s a great opportunity to close in,” he said. “We know the importance of this match, and we’re ready for the challenge. It’s a chance to close the gap on Villa, and for that reason, we’re looking forward to it.
“It’s probably a ‘must perform’ game for us. We have to deliver, and that’s my main focus. We need to concentrate on what we can control. We know we can compete, and we intend to do just that.
“There are still many games left, but everyone can read the table and see what this match means. So we must perform.”
Under Smerud, Palace have been defensively solid, restricting opponents to few clear-cut chances. Now, the Norwegian coach is eager to strengthen their attacking play.
“We knew it wouldn’t be easy to focus on offensive tactics against Chelsea,” Smerud said. “But I think we improved from the first half to the second against Liverpool.
“Breaking through, creating chances, and scoring goals is the hardest thing in football. Now we have more time to work on it and some exciting players to help. I look forward to seeing if we can cause more problems for Villa.”
With four of their final seven WSL games at home, Smerud is determined to turn the VBS Community Stadium into a fortress, using the energy of their home supporters.
“It’s important. Playing at home should be an advantage, and we hope to make it one,” he added. “We know other teams struggle on the road, so we need to make the most of our home ground.
“We’ve taken steps forward, conceding fewer goals. Now it’s time to add another layer to our game, and we’ll work on that.
“I prefer playing at home. Our fans are fantastic, and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Leave a Reply