Lawrence Thomas says the secret behind Melbourne Victory’s recent run of form has been a focus on defence.
Put simply; the fewer chances you concede, the fewer goals you will concede.
“I think that a big difference between now and our first two weeks is we aren’t giving away too many chances,” Thomas said post-match.
“Newcastle away we were very solid, Central Coast Mariners likewise and tonight we were again really tight defensively.
“We’ve got so much quality going forward that if we can be ruthless at the back and clinical in attack we’ll give ourselves every chance to win.”
READ: Victory takes all three points on the road in Sydney
The shot-stopper had one of the best vantage points in a sold out Jubilee Stadium from which to take in the game and praised his side’s resilience following the concession of a controversial 35th minute spot kick.
“To respond the way that we did after that decision was very positive, especially away from home.
“Sometimes those sorts of things can happen, the momentum swings to the home team, who have the crowd on their side, and things become difficult.
“So to handle it the way we did was very pleasing.”
WATCH: Highlights from Victory’s 2-1 away win in Sydney
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It was the second penalty Melbourne Victory has conceded in the 2018/19 Hyundai A-League season and the second which Thomas has saved at the first time of asking.
Yet, as was the case when he saved Melbourne City’s Bruno Fornaroli’s penalty in Round 1, the ball would be prodded home on the rebound.
“Look, it is frustrating, but it’s positive that I’ve been able to get to both.
“I was anticipating it slightly higher and got a hand down low, but in the end there wasn’t much we could do about it.
“Regardless of how quick our boys got into the box it was going to be a tough one to keep out.”
Melbourne Victory will look to keep a hold of that winning feeling with back-to-back home games starting with the visit of Western Sydney Wanderers to Marvel Stadium next Saturday night.
“The group is very upbeat.
“To start the season with two losses and bounce back like we have, we’re very pleased, very relaxed and looking forward to a new week and the Wanderers up next.”
