As Matchweek 6 approaches, Sydney FC’s latest derby is brewing to become one of this season’s biggest rivalries as the Sky Blues face off against A-league newcomers Macarthur FC at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Saturday night (Kick off 7pm AEDT).
Get to know more about the A-League’s latest team, coached by Ante Milicic
How did they Come to join the A-League?
In December 2018, FFA announced that South West Sydney would indeed have its own club playing out of Campbelltown Stadium from 2020.
The club was formed following a merge of two separate bids for the A-League license up for grabs, focussing on a key principle of community engagement.
What is their history
The club’s name, logo and colours were officially unveiled in May 2019, with Ante Milicic announced as their inaugural Head Coach.
Former Socceroo Tommy Oar was announced as the club’s first signing and on December 30, 2020, Macarthur FC played it’s first ever A-League match.
Who are their key players?
Macarthur wasted no time signing several key players to start their A-League campaign competitively. Some signings include:
- Ivan Franjic: The Socceroo defender and former Perth Glory player has played 20 games for the Australian side.
- Tommy Oar: The former Socceroo was the first player to pen his signature with the Macarthur FC. The 28-year-old forward has played 28 games for the Socceroos. He played in all of Australia’s 2014 FIFA World Cup group matches.
- Mark Milligan: The 34-year-old is the expansion club’s marquee signing. The former Socceroo is looking forward to playing in the A-League again after returning to Australia from England.
- Milislav Popovic: The Liverpool local is returning home to Australia after stints in Italy, Germany and Austria, where he played with FC Cologne and Eintracht Braunschweig.
Interesting statistics
This will be Macarthur’s first A-League game against Sydney FC. One of their two local derbies.
Macarthur boast a 50% win record since starting their A-League campaign.
Sydney FC and Macarthur FC met in pre-season, with the Sky Blues emerging 2-1 victors with Trent Buhagiar scoring both goals.
Macarthur’s supporters are famous for the ringing of their cowbells throughout the match (Bring earplugs).
Sydney FC’s most recent A-League match at Campbelltown Stadium ended in a 1-0 victory for the Sky Blues over the Wellington Phoenix.
