Central Coast Mariners skipper Nick Montgomery has refuted claims the F3 Derby has lost its edge, arguing that it is as important a game for his club as ever.
The fixture’s standing as a ‘derby’ has been called into question in recent months, with some suggesting the rivalry between Central Coast and Newcastle Jets has lost its flavour, with crowd numbers appearing to dwindle.
However, ahead of the next instalment at Gosford Stadium on Sunday, Montgomery has defended the importance of the clash to the Central Coast.
“I think it (the F3 Derby) is as fierce as ever,” Montgomery said.
“It’s easy for people to say that (the fixture has lost its edge). I think I can remember one game where it probably wasn’t a derby atmosphere, that was last season down there.
“Every other game I’ve played in, we’ve played with plenty of spice and there was a good derby down there this season, where we drew 1-1. We were unfortunate not to win that game.
“It’s a derby, we’re going to be fired up and we need all our fans there. They’ve been fantastic all season and if they good come out in numbers this weekend and support us then we want to send them home happy.”
In a testament to the importance of the fixture for the Mariners, Montgomery warned that should players not be able to lift for this fixture, they are likely in the wrong profession.
“As captain in such an important game, for me, if you can’t lift yourself as a player for this game, then you shouldn’t be a footballer.
“I’d say that every week, but with the extra spice and what happened on Sunday (against Melbourne City) and how important this win is for us, we need 11 players out there that are fired up.”
What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.
