The clash
Blockbuster is putting it lightly as Melbourne City take on Sydney FC in an early-season top of the table clash at AAMI Park on Friday.
Both sides are taking a head of steam into the contest with City picking up maximum points in their opening four matches while Sydney’s only blemish was a draw in the gripping Sydney Derby two weeks ago.
With City picking up five wins in a row twice in the Club’s history, Friday night could be a landmark moment for Warren Joyce and his men, not only continuing their perfect start to the season but more importantly, stretching the gap to the Sydneysiders at the summit to five points.
There is no doubt Friday night will be a gripping battle between two evenly matched sides and we can’t wait to be a part of this one!
Team News
Despite an unchanged eleven for three weeks, Warren Joyce has one forced changed with Osama Malik serving a one match suspension. See our full team news.
Last time they met
Pre-season was the last time these sides went head-to-head in a competitive match as City were eliminated from the Westfield FFA Cup by Sydney. A 2-0 loss at Leichhardt Oval saw City’s cup defence halted by Graham Arnold’s side as a free-kick from Jordi Buijs and a second half chip from Alex Brosque secured the result for the hosts.
Stats and facts
- Melbourne City have opened their season with four consecutive wins, only twice in A-League history has any team begun a campaign with a longer winning streak (Melbourne Victory in 2006/07; Sydney FC in 2016/17).
- Melbourne City have made 72 interceptions this campaign, more than any other team in the competition and 28 more than last-ranked Sydney FC.
- Iacopo La Rocca has made 31 clearances so far this season, more than any other player in the competition.
What was said
Melbourne City Captain Michael Jakobsen
“They’re a well organised team. Offensively they are looking strong and defensively last year they are very good so they have good qualities and they are the team to beat. If we can match them on all levels, I’m sure we have a good chance to win. If we are not there and performing well, it’s going to be a very hard test.”
Sydney FC Head Coach Graham Arnold
“It’s a good game, a good challenge for both teams but we’re in fantastic form and we’ve always enjoyed going down to Melbourne as a group and we’re looking forward to the game at AAMI Park.”
Where and when
City take on Sydney this Friday night at AAMI Park, kick-off 7.50pm. Don’t forget our women’s side will be in action as well in the Melbourne Derby, kick-off 5.20pm. Click here to get your tickets!
