Our weekly Fan Blog returns, as Matt assesses the situation heading into this Saturday’s Melbourne Derby, set to be one of the most passionate and colorful encounters this season.
Our weekly Fan Blog returns, as Matt assesses the situation heading into this Saturday’s Melbourne Derby, set to be one of the most passionate and colorful encounters this season.
The cliché states that form doesn’t matter before a derby, and given last weekend-s loss to the table-topping Mariners last week, Head Coach John Aloisi will certainly be hoping that proves true.
Aloisi has proven a catalyst in the derby on the pitch, scoring three goals in three derby games in the club-s inaugural season, including the first ever Melbourne derby goal in 2010, and he will look to replicate the impact he had from the sidelines in the round one derby clash this season.
The Heart-s high-octane counter-attacking game plan worked a treat last time around against Ange Postecoglu-s men, but one can-t help but feel that the Victory boss will be more prepared for anything similar this time around.
So the responsibility falls on Aloisi to devise a new way to beat Melbourne Victory (again), and that-s a lot easier said than done, particularly after such a tough loss last week.
Fortunately, Heart have a habit of bouncing back from disappointment to secure big results.
Heart-s first derby win came on the back of a 4-0 loss in Brisbane, whilst last season, Heart had to recover from similar poor form to get a massive win over Gold Coast United on the way to securing a first ever appearance in the A-League finals series.
As a fan, it is hard to overstate the importance of the derby. We-ve been on the winning end more often than not, and that-s a trend we-d all like to see continue.
I-ve endured the taunts and jeers of those in blue after a derby once, and it-s not an experience I-m keen on having to re-live, although it’s all part of the game.
As fans, we have an important part to play too.
That famous derby atmosphere that you read about in the papers, or hear the players talk about, that noise that inspires the men in red to glory, that comes from you, and if you-ve got yourself one of the hottest tickets in town for this Saturday night, make sure you-re loud and proud.
The club-s active supporters group has made a statement to all the club-s fans, and I think it is important that ever single person who calls themself a Melbourne Heart supporter gives what they have to say plenty of consideration.
It could be the difference between winning and losing.
The Yarraside group has emphasised the role that we as fans have to play in getting our boys over the line, stating:
“Ten months ago against Gold Coast United, Yarraside showed what total support can inspire,” the group said.
“Melbourne Heart sat beleaguered, winless for 8 games and looked destined to miss the finals. After a poor first half, Yarraside put in a display of total support in the 2nd half that inspired the team to victory.”
“For the derby we are demanding total support, unrelenting noise & total co-ordination. If you are coming to the derby, Active & non-Active fans alike, we expect you to give your all for this club.
The team needs it. No excuses. No exceptions.
“As supporters, we have the power to right this season.”
Strong words, certainly, but they could prove the difference between bragging rights and another derby win for the red and white half of Melbourne, not to mention a massive three points that will get our finals charge back on track, and being on the wrong end of a crushing derby defeat.
Don-t underestimate the power you have on this sort of occasion.
Stand up for your Heart, and prove that Melbourne is Red and White.
