A-League games don’t get much bigger than the famous Sydney Derby, and after a worrying past couple of weeks, the Western Sydney Wanderers will be using this Saturday’s clash at Pirtek Stadium to get their season back on track.
After a win, draw and a big 3-1 loss to the Wellington Phoenix over their last three games, a Sydney Derby couldn’t have come at a better time for the Wanderers to set themselves up for what’s set to be a huge second half of the season.
“It’s the game everyone looks for when the draw comes out,” Wanderers striker Mark Bridge said at training on Tuesday.
“It’s set to be a big one. I’m sure everyone will be raring to go and the crowd is going to be massive.”
Wanderers coach Tony Popovic agreed, declaring form coming into a Derby match doesn’t come into contention because there is so much rivalry at stake.
“However Sydney FC are going or however we are going it’s irrespective for this game,” he said.
“If we look at the Derby coming up, from my experience form goes out the window and I’m sure it’ll be a very passionate affair. These games are special.”
Popovic said he doesn’t need to gear up his players for a match against Sydney FC because the passion and hatred for each other is already present.
“I don’t think you need to go into much detail for this game, it’s an easy game for both sides to get motivated for,” he said.
“Derbies are special and everyone wants to be a part of it whether you are an administrator, player, staff, coach or the fans, it’s a special day and it should be.
“The rivalry is getting bigger and better. You can feel it in the stands and on the field… the rivalry is building. It’s great to have two Sydney teams and I’m sure everyone is looking forward to it.”
Popovic said the club is experiencing no injury concerns and will have a full squad to choose from for the clash.
“It’ll be tough to pick a team,” he admitted on Tuesday.
