Maddy Ayson spoke ahead of her first experience of the Sydney Derby and after missing the last few weeks due to injury is thrilled to be back in contention.
“It feels good to be back, finally in full training with the team. I’ve only been out for a couple of weeks, but I definitely missed soccer a little bit.
“We have yet to concede [while absent], so shout out to all the girls. Week by week, we just keep getting better and better, and we’re starting to see that in our results,” she said.
Ahead of her own Sydney Derby on Sunday, Madison and a few of the team went to watch the men’s Sydney Derby last weekend and loved it.
“That was a crazy experience, I’m not going to lie. The crowds were very loud, and I think watching the game, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, but it was a good football match to watch. “
“Yeah, we’ve asked the girls a couple of questions about the derby because I’ve never been involved in one, and they’re just like, it’s always a crazy game. The crowd is always pretty loud. It’s usually pretty physical, so this kind of just gets me more and more excited for the game.”
Sydney FC have claimed the victory in the previous six meetings and haven’t conceded a goal against the Wanderers since 2019.
“I’m a little bit nervous about that. I definitely bet on us to keep it that way, but definitely [the] pressure is building, to hopefully perform like previous teams.
“I think it definitely gives us confidence in the way we’re playing and that we are getting better and better, but it’s very early in the season,” exclaimed Madison.
Ayson is originally from America, and while she misses home, she has been enjoying the Australian summer weather.
“I’m loving Sydney. If we could turn the camera around, it’s a beautiful day. I don’t see a single cloud in the sky. I’m seeing videos of my friends from home, and it’s winter back in the states, so it’s funny that I’m like, oh, that sucks. You had a rainy day. Look, I’m on the beach right now. The sun is shining. “
It is difficult to separate work and personal life when you live with your teammates 24/7, but Madison achieves it with her roommates, ensuring a work-life balance where worries are addressed as needed, but just spending time watching movies and being in the moment is a priority.
“It’s like it’s my adopted family, it’s really nice. It feels like home.“
Check out the recent podcast to learn more about the players, both Madison Ayson and Heather Hinz.
Match Details
Western Sydney Wanderers v Sydney FC
Ninja A-League Round 6 2025/26
Sunday 7th December 2025
Marconi Stadium, Sydney, NSW
Kick Off: 5pm AEDT
Gates Open: 4pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ & 10Streaming
