Sydney FC midfielder Rhys Youlley says the Sky Blues are ready to adapt and rise to the challenge as they head west to face an in-form Perth Glory at HBF Park on Saturday night (9:45pm AEDT).
With both Joe Lolley and Paul Okon Jnr sidelined this week, Youlley acknowledged the absence of two influential teammates but stressed the group’s confidence and depth remain strong.
“The team’s always stronger when we’re all fit and healthy,” Youlley said.
“Unfortunately this week we have to play without Joey and Paulie, but we just adapt and deal with whatever comes.”
“Not a one-man team”
Lolley’s hamstring issue is a blow for the Sky Blues, but Youlley pointed to recent performances as proof of the squad’s collective strength.
“Tiago was very influential for us in his first start, and finding him in the pockets worked really well,” Youlley said.
“It’s not a one-man team. We all want to show up and do our best — and we’ll try to do the same again this week.”
Embracing responsibility
With Okon Jnr out until the end of the month, Youlley is preparing for added responsibility in midfield, something he welcomes at this stage of his development.
“I’m at a point in my career where I’m chasing consistency in game time and performances,” he said.
“Paulie’s a big part of our team, so I have to step up and do a bit more — but I’m enjoying the responsibility.”
Last weekend’s win over the Central Coast Mariners saw Youlley operate as the single No.6, a role he believes can help unlock Sydney’s attacking threats.
“With Tiago [Quintal] and Piero [Quispe] in front of me, all I really have to do is get the ball to them,” he said.
“It’s a different role, and I’m still learning, but it’s helping the team.”
Breaking down an in-form Glory
Perth Glory enter the match on a three-game winning streak — their best run in years — and have tightened up significantly defensively. But Youlley believes Sydney FC are well prepared.
“In this league, every game is a big game,” he said.
“We’ve done our review. We know the areas we can exploit and we’ve worked on it during training. Come the weekend, we’ll be ready.”
Depth ready to deliver
With opportunities opening up across the pitch, Youlley says the level of competition in training means any player can step up when needed — including those pushing for Lolley’s spot.
“The best thing about our team this season is the depth and the competitiveness,” he said.
“Everyone’s ready to step in at any moment and do their role.”
Match Details
Perth Glory v Sydney FC
Isuzu UTE A-League Round 8
Saturday 13th December 2025
HBF Park, Perth, WA
Kick Off: 9:45pm AEDT (6:45pm Local)
Broadcast Live: Paramount+
