It was a stunning strike that lit up the FFA Cup, but it’s not the first time Sky Blues’ marquee Siem de Jong has found the back of the net from a set piece.
Speaking post match, de Jong said his free kick was reminiscent of one he bagged back in Holland, and while he’s not famed for his free kick ability he said it’s something he practices weekly in the lead up to games.
“When the free kick came on that spot I was pretty sure I was going to take it. It was a good spot for me so I was allowed to take it,” de Jong said.
“The last time I scored a free kick was 2 years ago, in a similar position, in one of my first games back in Holland for the U21 team to get minutes in.
“I haven’t taken a lot in between but it was a good one to get in, especially putting us 2-0 up I think it really helped get the win.
“You need a bit of confidence, for the confidence it’s always good to score for the team. I’m glad I could help.
“I practice them [free kicks] once or twice every week. I do train on set pieces and [on Saturday] it worked in the game, it’s important.”
Reflecting on his first taste of a #SydneyDerby, de Jong said he was eager to compete in more intense matches, while he revealed the cheek jibe aimed at former Ajax team mate and current Wanderer Roly Bonevacia.
“These kind of games are always special,” de Jong said.
“Hopefully I can play a lot more of these games and in the league. We want to do our best and hopefully a lot of people show up to support us.
“This was a real game, it was a tough game, I’ve played a few friendlies but these are the games where you really get tested.
“I need to get more of these games in to improve as well. The atmosphere, the game, hopefully we get more of these games to continue to improve.
“I played with Bonevacia at Ajax, I know him pretty good and it’s nice to see him here,” he continued.
“When I arrived here I spoke to him a couple of times, on the pitch we spoke a couple of times. When I scored the goal I said to him ‘that’s a nice one’. He was laughing a little but he wasn’t really happy.”
Sydney FC will contest another #SydneyDerby in 3 WEEKS TIME at the SCG in their first home game of the 2018/19 season! Don’t miss the chance to see the Sky Blues do it all again in the Derby, secure your seats now.
