Sydney FC will be seeking a psychological edge when it faces the North Queensland Fury in a friendly at Cronulla on Saturday night, with the first ever meeting between the two Hyundai A-League teams acting as a preview of their opening round clash, which will be played in Townville on August 8.
Sydney FC will be seeking a psychological edge when it faces the North Queensland Fury in a friendly at Cronulla on Saturday night, with the first ever meeting between the two Hyundai A-League teams acting as a preview of their opening round clash, which will be played in Townville on August 8.
“It-s not too far away now and any little edge we can get over them in the first game is mentally good for us,” said Sydney FC Captain, Steve Corica after his side-s final training session on Friday morning.
“We-ve been playing the state league teams. Now the real stuff takes place. (I-m) looking forward to it actually – first chance to have a look at North Queensland and see how they shape up.”
The Sky Blues have enjoyed a smooth build up to their first outing against a Hyundai A-League opponent, recording seven straight trial wins against State League teams during the first stage of their pre-season campaign.
“It-s going really well, I think we-re into the ninth week now and we-ve played seven pre-season games, won them all, we haven-t conceded a goal yet so things are shaping up very nicely,” explained Corica.
Despite the success so far, Sydney is refusing to get too far ahead of itself as it builds towards the start of the Hyundai A-League season.
“Yes we are (going well) but still it-s only pre season. We have many things to improve,” said Coach, Vitezslav Lavicka. “(This is) a very good pre season game for us. I think (North Queensland) is most difficult opponent and good test for us.”
The friendly clash will be provide a rare opportunity for Shire residents to witness two top-flight teams in action, and Sutherland product, Brendan Gan is expecting a big response from the local football community.
“It-s at home for me. Hopefully there-s a good turnout, and hopefully we can turn it on and show the Shire what Sydney can do,” said Gan.
The Shark Park match marks the start of what is sure to be a strong rivalry between Sydney FC and North Queensland, with several former Sydney stars in the Fury lineup, including Rob Middleby, Jacob Timpano and Brendon Santalab.
The game kicks off at 7pm on Saturday night, following a curtain raiser between State Premier League sides, Sutherland and Marconi.
Click here to visit the Ticketek website and pre-purchase tickets for Saturday night’s friendly between Sydney FC and the North Queensland Fury.
