Sydney FC defender Alex Grant believes the Australia Day Big Blue against Melbourne Victory presents the perfect opportunity for the Sky Blues to rediscover consistency — and what better way to celebrate his 32nd birthday than with three points.
“That would definitely top it off,” Grant said.
“Getting three points over there would be the icing on the cake.”
With a congested run of fixtures looming, the experienced centre-back knows the coming weeks could define Sydney FC’s season.
“These next three games especially are make or break,” he said.
“Victory, Wanderers, Auckland — all in a short space of time. This run can really set us up, but we need to find consistency now.”
Building consistency amid challenges
Grant pointed to injuries and squad disruption as key factors behind Sydney FC’s fluctuating form, but remains confident the group can stabilise.
“Early in the season we had that consistency when everyone was fit,” he said.
“When boys are coming in and out, it doesn’t always help, but with the personnel we’ve got now, we have to find a way to build it again.”
“It’s about putting the plan into action.”
League’s best defence
Sydney FC head into the Big Blue with the league’s strongest defensive record, something Grant takes great pride in — particularly his partnership with Marcel Tisserand.
“We’ve gelled really well,” he said.
“It’s always hard when foreign players come in late, but Marcel has adapted really well. You’ve seen how well he’s played.”
“I feel like we’ve built a strong partnership, and credit also has to go to the lads you don’t see on the pitch. They push us every day.”
Grant highlighted the internal competition for places as a major driver of standards.
“There’s real competition this season,” he said.
“Everyone has to be on their toes, and that gets the best out of players.”
Experience leading the way
Now 32, Grant embraces his role as a senior figure in guiding younger teammates.
“It’s about helping the younger boys, managing them and teaching them where I can,” he said.
“That experience helps the whole group.”
Even when rotation is required, Grant is confident the depth behind him can step up.
“The young boys have earned their stripes,” he said.
“When they’re asked to step in, they’ll do a job — and that’s what’s expected at this club.”
A fearless mindset
Reflecting on last week’s match, Grant admitted the team showed greater freedom late — a mentality he wants from the opening whistle.
“We came in at halftime and said we had nothing to lose,” he said.
“We probably need to take that mentality into the start of games as well.”
“That confidence going forward can really help us.”
Preparing for Victory’s threats
Grant knows Melbourne Victory pose a dangerous attacking challenge, particularly with key players returning from injury.
“They’ve got great attacking threats,” he said.
“They’ll be looking to bounce back after a couple of poor results, just like us.”
“That’s the league at the moment — everyone’s a bit up and down — so we have to be ready.”
With belief in their defensive foundations and a crucial stretch ahead, Grant is clear on what success looks like on Australia Day.
“We feel solid,” he said.
“We’ve just got to continue it.”
Match Details
Melbourne Victory v Sydney FC
Isuzu UTE A-League Round 14
Monday 26th January 2026
AAMI Park, Melbourne, VIC
Kick Off: 5:40pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+
