Champion defender Servet Uzunlar is ready for battle as Sydney FC look to take on rivals Western Sydney Wanderers in the much-anticipated Sydney Derby this Saturday 27 September at Marconi Stadium (kick off 3pm).
– By Alison Taunton
Uzunlar is one of several players to switch Sydney clubs for the Westfield W-League 2014 season and is hopeful the Sky Blues can take away three points and secure their third win to remain undefeated.
“It’s going to be a great match, a derby always is,” she said.
“We’re hoping for a win and they’re hoping for a win.
“I played with a bunch of the girls the last two seasons so I’m up for a good game.”
The 25-year-old defender believes Sydney FC are well-prepared for the encounter, coming off victories against Adelaide United and Brisbane Roar in their first two matches, to sit second on goal difference on the table.
“Our team is taking a good shape and quite quickly into the season,” Uzunlar said.
“I am very pleased with our performance on Sunday, especially after going down to ten men in the second half and conceding an unlucky goal from Brisbane.
“I believe in my team and this weekend we’ll go out there and give it our best.”
Uzunlar began her Westfield W-League career with Sydney FC before moving to Western Sydney Wanderers for the previous two seasons, and she believes the switch back was an easy choice given the professionalism and support she has received leading into the 2014 season.
“I took some time away from the game, completely, so coming back to the W-League I wanted a familiar face and I’ve known Staj since I was thirteen,” she said.
“Sydney was more concrete and structured, and for me it’s the right environment to play football.”
While Uzunlar has long-term aspirations to make the World Cup Squad, she says having a solid Westfield W-League season is her number one priority.
“I’m just trying to focus on the W-League,” Uzunlar said.
“It’s about getting a foundation of games under your belt.
“I’m just trying to really focus, get through matches and take care of my body so once the season is over, I can hopefully push for a spot [in the Matildas].”
Sydney FC take on the Western Sydney Wanderers at Marconi Stadium TOMORROW (kick off 3pm). Follow @SydneyFC on Twitter for LIVE match updates as the Sky Blues look to continue their unbeaten start to the season.
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