It’s a Grand Final re-match. It’s our home opener. It’s set to be a cracker. Here are the five things we are looking forward to ahead of our Round 2 clash with Sydney FC at AAMI Park.
Home opener
Melbourne City FC’s W-League side will host their first match since they were crowned champions last season, when they host Sydney FC at AAMI Park on Friday, kick-off 5:20pm.
In what is set to be a blockbuster double-header with the A-League side, Rado Vidosic’s team will be looking to bounce back from their Round 1 defeat to Canberra United at McKellar Park last weekend.
It’s the first of four W-League games that City will play at AAMI Park this season, three of which are Friday night fixtures, so don’t miss the chance to get down and support the girls. Don’t have a ticket yet? Click here to secure your seat.
Grand Final rematch
City became the first team in the competition’s history to win three consecutive championships when they defeated Sydney FC 2-0 in the W-League Grand Final last season.
Of City’s three grand final wins, two have come against the Sky Blues.
Sydney Head Coach Ante Juric and his side will be determined to get one back on their Melbourne rivals, as Friday night’s clash is shaping up to be a beauty between two of the competition’s most consistent performers.
If there is one match you don’t want to miss this season, it’s this one.
Star-studded
One factor that has influenced the consistency of both teams in recent years, is the quality of their respective squads.
City will be led by world-class goalkeeper Lydia Williams, alongside Elise Kellond-Knight (100 Matildas caps) and Theresa Nielsen (over 120 caps for Denmark). Kellond-Knight has been twice named in the FIFA Women’s World Cup All-Star team while Nielsen was named in UEFA Women’s Euro Best XI in 2017, highlighting their calibre.
On the other hand, you have three Matildas internationals, Caitlin Foord, Lisa De Vanna and Chloe Logarzo, all lining up for Sydney FC.
With a wealth of experience and class between the two teams, Friday night’s clash should not disappoint.
The exuberance of youth
With a host of notable players missing City’s Round 1 clash with Canberra, Head Coach Rado Vidosic called upon his youngsters to step-up to the occasion.
Of Vidosic’s starting XI, six players had never played a competitive fixture in City blue.
Nia Stamatopoulos, Chelsea Blissett and Janna Lawson were all youngsters given the opportunity to shine on the W-League stage.
The trio not once shied away from the experience, bringing energy and exuberance to the squad.
With a few names still missing, the youngsters will be better for the run come Friday if called upon.
First impressions
Melbourne City’s first home game of the season presents the first chance for fans to see the Club’s new-signings in action.
Theresa Nielsen, Helen Caceres, Jasmyne Spencer, Nia Stamatopoulos, Janna Lawson, Chelsea Blissett, Adriana Jones and Aimee Medwin all played a part in the Club’s Round 1 fixture.
If given the opportunity to do so, there’s no doubt that the girls will be looking to make a lasting first impression in front of the City faithful.
If you haven’t already done so, become a City member today to enjoy the best of both the W-League and A-League action.
