Inglewood United will be looking to make a statement of intent when they step onto Dorrien Gardens this weekend. A five-game winning run has propelled Inglewood into the top four for the first time this year, but that’s not enough for midfielder Andrija Jukic who says to beat Perth SC on their own patch would really make the competition sit up and listen.

“It’s another big game where we have to go out and get the three points,” said Jukic, who played for Perth prior to moving to Perth Glory in 2008. “Perth are one of the league’s top sides, and they are the teams we have to beat to be taken seriously and to be able to climb the ladder … it’s a must-win really.”

The next fortnight will be a real test of Inglewood’s mettle with the this weekend’s date with third-placed Perth followed by a home clash with National Premier Leagues leaders Bayswater City. Back-to-back games against two of the competition’s top sides would be a daunting prospect for some, but not Jukic, who feels his team are nearing peak form.

“Our team is getting used to playing with each other and as a result we are putting in some decent performances,” said Jukic. “We showed our character and belief in the way we play, and in each other, by coming from behind at half-time to win at Cockburn City last week. We’ll carry that form and confidence into the next fortnight.”

Another boost to the team has come in the form of new signing Brian Woodall, who debuted at Cockburn. “Brian gives us another attacking option,” commented Jukic of the former Dagenham and Redbridge finisher. “He is a natural striker, someone who can hold the ball up, bring in players and be a menace to opposition defenders.”

Jukic expects Woodall, and his counterpart at the opposite end of the park, to feature prominently on Saturday. “Perth’s attackers are clinical, they have guys who can create chances from nothing,” he said. “There’ll be an abundance of attacking power on show. It will be an end-to-end goal-fest …well I hope so, it will be more fun that way!”