It’s Melbourne Derby week! Ahead of Saturday night’s blockbuster clash, we take a look at the five things we’re looking forward to.
Throw the form guide out the window
It’s Melbourne Derby time and after one win and one draw from the past two derbies this season, City will be looking to claim Melbourne’s bragging rights when they take on Melbourne Victory at Marvel Stadium.
If history is anything to go by, form leading into the match means little as the emotion and passion of the derby takes centre stage.
After a disappointing result, City will be looking to bounce back on the biggest stage before they host ladder-leaders Perth Glory at AAMI Park on Sunday 3 March, kick-off 5:00pm. Get your tickets here.
Can J-Mac make it three from three?
There’s been no sign of teething-problems for Socceroos attacker Jamie Maclaren, with the 25-year-old netting two goals from two appearances to open his City account.
The Melbournian has showcased his attacking prowess and ability to hit the scoreboard in the two matches leading into his first Melbourne Derby.
Representing a Melbourne-based team for the first time at the highest level, the proud Melbournian will be looking to make an instant impact on the city’s biggest stage. He’s a man that thrives under pressure, and Saturday night’s match should be no different.
The stage is set for a superhero’s heroics
It’s only fitting that under the lights of Marvel Stadium, an opportunity presents itself for a player to grasp the opportunity and thrive under the pressure of the big occasion.
With two derby heroes already this season in Riley McGree and Dario Vidosic, City will be looking for a third hero to step up in the third and final derby of the regular season.
The rivalry
It’s mate against mate. Neighbour against neighbour. Family against family. We’re set for an enthralling battle between two fierce cross-town rivals.
Whether it be Jamie Maclaren’s family ties that are conflicted, or yours, nothing beats the entertainment that comes with a derby. The beauty of sport is its unscripted nature and as you cheer for the boys in City blue, with your support behind them, they’ll be fighting for derby pride!
With just one clean sheet kept in the last 11 Melbourne Derbies, you won’t be left short of entertainment.
Bounce back ability
It’s a crucial month ahead for the team in City blue, and after a disappointing result against Newcastle, Head Coach Warren Joyce and his men will be eager to bounce back.
Facing the top three in the next three matches, an opportunity presents itself for City to make a statement to the competition leading into the pointy end of the season.
A positive derby result will no doubt spur some much-needed momentum behind the team leading into the following two fixtures.
