It’s The Decider
The last regular season Melbourne Derby is upon us for this season and it is set to be a blockbuster as Melbourne City FC and Melbourne Victory go head-to-head at AAMI Park on Friday night!
The ledger is squared for the 2017-18 season with one win apiece, and there is no doubt that both teams will put it all on the line in the 26th edition of the Derby as Melbourne’s two football teams fight for the town’s bragging rights.
Don’t miss the chance to watch a contest full of passion, entertainment and end-to-end football. Get your tickets below.
A chance to make a statement
Throw the form guide out the window because it’s Derby time. There’s something different about the big occasion that comes with Derbies, the big players step-up and recent form often counts for very little.
Despite suffering back-to-back losses, City will be determined to return to the winner’s list and there is no greater occasion to do so then against their city rivals under Friday night lights.
Bruno’s back
One player that thrives under the pressure, excitement and significance of a Derby, is Bruno Fornaroli.
Fornaroli has produced some of his most magical moments in the Hyundai A-League in the Melbourne Derby and if given the opportunity to do so on Friday, there is no doubt that the attacker will be looking to stamp his authority on the content.
Bruno missed both the 24th and 25th editions of the Derby due to injury and will be looking to make up for lost time in front of the home fans.
The shining light
City may have suffered a disappointing loss on the road to Perth Glory last weekend, but Daniel Arzani produced a piece of football genius with a delightful solo goal.
The youngster continues to thrive under the pressure of expectation and there is very little doubt that the Melbourne Derby is the perfect occasion for him to again dazzle in his first taste of the big occasion.
Break-away ability
Back-to-back losses have seen City’s lead over fourth-placed Victory cut to four points on the league ladder.
But Friday night’s blockbuster presents an opportunity for Joyce’s men to make amends for their results over the past month and strengthen their hold on third-place.
With the top two sides in Sydney FC and Newcastle Jets also going head-to-head this weekend, three points is vital in the race for second place and the overall shaping of the top four.
