Expert
Not even Hans Christian Andersen could have cooked this one up. Western Sydney Wanderers can clinch the Premier’s Plate with a win over bitter rivals Sydney FC in the Sydney Derby tonight. We’ll have live scores and minute-by-minute updates from 7.45pm AEDT.
Pinch yourself, because this is it. Top spot is a formality for the Wanderers, whose unprecedented success on debut in the competition has breathed new life into the sport in this country.
If the side can keep its record winning streak going for one more match, first position on the ladder – and, unbelievably, an AFC Champions League appearance next season – is locked in.
It’s clearly going to happen from here, barring a collapse of epic proportions from the Wanderers.
But Sydney FC need a win to keep their noses in front in the finals race, and won’t want all that happening on their watch.
Lucas Neill is back in the side, and with the city’s bragging rights on the line the Sky Blues will be looking to experienced players like the Socceroos skipper, poacher Joel Griffiths and of course, the great Alessandro Del Piero, to make the difference.
It should be a red and black night but don’t write off the boys in blue.
This is a derby and anything could happen – even though all signs point to another milestone occasion for Western Sydney.
Can Western Sydney seal the Premier’s Plate tonight with a win, or will the big brother step in and play the spoiler?
Find out from 7.45pm AEDT as we cover the Sydney Derby with live scores and commentary, and don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the space below.