Western Sydney Wanderers and Sydney FC meet at Pirtek Stadium for the second Sydney Derby of the season.
The home side looking to bounce back after last week’s heartbreaking loss to Melbourne City. Sydney FC have stretched their unbeaten run to four matches, but are still searching for the form that took them to the grand final last season. Outside90’s Breanna Holden looks at the major talking points heading into tonight’s match.
Ali Abbas’ impact
Returning from a long stint on the sideline last weekend was popular Sky Blue Ali Abbas; with the Iraqi making a fairytale appearance off the bench to score the winning goal for Sydney. While the midfielder certainly stole the highlights reel last round, it is his clashes with the Wanderers that will stick in many fans’ memories – with the international involved in a controversial row with Brendan Santalab, and suffering his painful long-term injury in his last match at Pirtek Stadium. Given history, and the highs of last week’s return, it is almost certain Abbas will play some important role in Saturday night’s bout.
Western Sydney’s derby drought
Despite having success in the early Sydney derby encounters, the Wanderers have now gone a dismal five clashes without a win against their bitter rivals – including a loss and a draw on home soil last season. Given the side’s revival this campaign, and upper hand both in form and on the ladder most Red and Black fans will be feeling there is no time like the present to break the drought and grab local bragging rights (as well as first place). However, with derbies rarely going according to plan, Western Sydney will have to see the likes of Romeo Castelen, Mitch Nichols, Dario Vidosic and keeper Andrew Redmayne put in flawless 90 minutes.
Sydney’s revamped attack
While Sydney have played well throughout the season, their forward ranks have been a disappointment (with the exception of skipper Alex Brosque). However over the Christmas period the tides have changed ever so slightly for Sydney, with the team taking on a more dynamic frontline to cope in the absence of a fully-fit Brosque. While finishing is still an issue, the side’s forward imports and exciting youth have started to click and provide constant attacking options. Given the atmosphere in an away derby the side could be primed to feed off the energy and finally reach their attacking potential, or be made to pay the price for frustrating finishing at Wanderland.
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