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This match will mean more than just bragging rights, as both Sydney FC and the Western Sydney Wanderers need the points to keep their top-four hopes alive. Join The Roar for live scores and coverage from 7:30pm (AEDT).
They say form doesn’t count in a derby, and both these sides will be hoping this is true after each has struggled in recent weeks.
Sydney FC will be looking to put all recent history out of their minds, having lost the last three derbies and coming off a disappointing loss to Central Coast last week.
Sydney has been inconsistent this year and will look to string together some good performances in a last push towards the finals.
This match provides a great chance for Sydney to pick up some momentum and give the fans something to cheer about.
Sydney’s biggest problem this year has been slow starts. While it’s nothing new to say, it is important to start strong – it will be vital for the Sky Blues to start well tonight if they hope to taste derby success.
It should be noted that Sydney has lost all nine games this season when they have conceded the first goal, meaning they cannot afford to go behind against the Wanderers tonight.
They will need to sharpen up defensively at set pieces as well, with almost half the goals they have conceded this season coming from dead-ball situations.
Western Sydney have found themselves in a mid-season slump, and with Asian Champions League commitments it is not going to get any easier for Tony Popovic’s men.
Of late, the Wanderers have slid below their lofty standards, but expect them to bounce back in the clash that they always seem to lift for.
Western Sydney have had problems finishing off games recently. While Popovic has been playing down the significance of a hectic schedule, there’s no doubt it had an impact in their lacklustre loss to the Jets last weekend.
There was none of that usual spark normally associated with the Wanderers. If they haven’t figured out a way to freshen things up this week it could be a tough night out against their local rivals.
Prediction:
I predict Frank Farina’s men to lift for the occasion and win a tight one.
Sydney FC 2-1 Western Sydney Wanderers.
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