After joining Shanghai Port this year, Matt Orr has discovered a “harsh and merciless environment” and a city where “temptations do not tempt you”.
Hoping to bounce back from the hamstring injury that has plagued him for Friday’s clash between Hong Kong and Mongolia, Orr was on the verge of a return to Shenzhen Peng City in January when the defending Chinese Premier League champions fell apart.
“It was a great opportunity and I’m very fortunate and grateful it came,” Orr said. “I’m trying to strengthen myself and show that I’m there. It’s a big step … I’ve enjoyed the level of training and strength, and improving my game.”
The move from a team starting seasons aiming to avoid relegation to a team hoping to finish in the top flight has added “different demands” on the striker.
“With Shenzhen, and Hong Kong playing tougher teams, it’s defense-first and counter-attacking, so your role as a No. 9 is to be the source and hold the ball,” Orr said.
“We dominate the ball, and we expect to win every game, so as a striker you have to do it and score goals. Of course there is pressure, and it’s worse, but that’s the environment in which I thrive. The manager (Kevin Muscat) has high standards. I have a good relationship with him and he pushes me a lot, which I’m happy about.
