As the captain and centre back of Sydney FC, Alex Wilkinson knows just how significant the Sydney Derby is not just for the players, but for the fans as well.
Getting on the scoresheet in a Derby at CommBank in the past, the emotions the captain experienced then are second to none.
This Saturday, both teams will re-ignite their rivalry in front of a bumper crowd, with the Sky Blues looking to get their first win at CommBank Stadium in the Derby.
“Everyone within the squad knows how big the game is and what it means to to not only us but you know predominantly what it means to the fans as well for bragging rights over Sydney.
“The majority of squad have been together a long time and played in quite a lot of Derbies, so they know what it means to the club” Wilkinson said.
“You can’t change things just because it’s a big game. It’s about doing the same things we’ve been doing, going through the way that we like to play and just making sure you’re up for the battle.”
The occasion is always one pencilled into the calendar from fans of the league as a whole.
“It’s such an exciting game and one that we all look forward to very much each year and it’s nice to be going in good form,” said Wilkinson.
“The fans really enjoy this one and hopefully they can all get out in numbers to CommBank Stadium because I’m sure the Wanderers will have a few fans there and the more blue we can get in the stands, the better for us.”
As for the game itself, Wilkinson expects a fast-paced start, but is confident that the team will settle down and perform at their best.
“The first 20 minutes is always fast and at a strong pace,” said Wilkinson. “It’s up to us to settle down and play our football and if we do that well enough, we will hopefully win the game.”
“Anytime you play the Derby, there’s always big stakes and you always want to win these games,” said Wilkinson. “It’s a game the boys look forward to, the fans look forward to, and one that hopefully we can come out on the right side.”
After two wins against Central Coast Mariners and Melbourne Victory, Wilkinson and his team-mates are buoyed by the recent return of Joel King to the side.
“He knows the way we like to play and he knows his role down to a tee from his time here before,” said Wilkinson.
This Sydney Derby promises to be an unforgettable occasion and one not to miss.
Match Details
Western Sydney Wanderers v Sydney FC
Isuzu UTE A-League Round 16
Saturday 11th February 2023
CommBank Stadium, Parramatta, NSW
Kick Off: 7:45pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ & 10Bold
Tickets: Click Here
