This Sunday will see another historic moment for Melbourne City FC and the Westfield W-League as it hosts its first Melbourne Derby and Head Coach Joe Montemurro says this week’s encounter will not be an easy task.
The W-League side started the season in style last week, dismantling last year’s Semi Finalists Sydney FC 6-0 away from home, but with a raft of forced changes due to international duty, Montemurro feels this week’s Derby will be completely different predicament.
“(It’s) a very, very tough game for a number of reasons. It’s the first Derby and both teams will be looking to do the right things,” Montemurro said.
“It’s a privilege to be in this position from my perspective and the girls perspective. They have an opportunity to make a little bit of history. The girls have been amazing and understand the magnitude of the occasion.”
City will see the omission of Laura Alleway, Steph Catley, Larissa Crummer and Lisa De Vanna this week, who are in camp with the Matildas, and Montemurro has made it clear that he is confident the side he will put out will be strong enough to win
“It’s been a little bit different because we haven’t had the full squad here but everyone’s really risen to the occasion training has been at a high tempo and high intensity so hopefully they carry that over on the day,” Montemurro said.
“I suppose like everything, you have to plan for these things and you have to plan strategically and we’ve done. I trust the players I’m putting out there and the team will be more than competitive.”
Melbourne City’s W-League side face Melbourne Victory on Sunday afternoon, kick-off 5pm. City’s A-League side then face the Central Coast Mariners at 5pm. Secure your place at the match via Ticketek or sign up for a full-season or 4-match pack today!
