Sydney FC defender Margaux Chauvet is not backing down from the fight that awaits the Sky Blues when they take on the Central Coast Mariners for the Grand Final decider this Saturday afternoon.
“We are definitely confident. I think getting the win last week was really good for us considering we lost the two before. The job is not done. Immediately at training this morning we knew that it wasn’t done. We know it is going to be another fight this weekend and we are getting ready for that,” Chauvet said.
Ante Juric’s squad had an outstanding campaign this season, finishing League runner up by only a two-point difference, just behind Melbourne City. The season performance from the Harbour City club landed them a direct spot in the Semi Finals and a free pass from the elimination round. A win in the first Semi Final leg last weekend at Industree Group Stadium started the Sky Blues’ Finals campaign strong but the battle isn’t quite over.
“There is a lot on the line. They [Mariners] have never had a Grand Final – they are pushing for something. We are pushing for our seventh in a row. Both teams have heaps at stake and it is going to be a really tough game.”
Chauvet in conversation about what is at stake this weekend.
“For me personally, this game is going to be the biggest game I’ve ever played. The stakes are quite high and I really want to make it into the Grand Final and I know a lot of the girls want to as well.
“It is definitely a dream of mine. I have always wanted to play in a Grand Final. I think any player at any level wants to play in a Grand Final,” said the 21 year-old.
The Sky Blues now have the opportunity to host the Mariners on home turf for the second Semi Final Leg after travelling to enemy territory last weekend. Leichhardt Oval has been the fortress for the Sydney FC women this season, capturing record number crowds and high intensity games.
This game is set to attract the third highest Liberty A-League crowd in history and Chauvet believes it’s a big reason behind getting this far.
“Whenever we have a massive crowd, it helps build the team morale. We love having the fans come and support us. It really pushes us in the game. We are expecting big numbers. I love looking out into the hill [at Leichhardt] or the stands and seeing families and The Cove,” she said.
The youngster who just announced a new two year contract with Sydney FC until 2026 featured in her first ever Liberty A-League Semi Final last weekend, adopting a new position under Juric’s guidance.
“Moving into the 6 position has been great. I have previously played that position at other clubs. I had the opportunity to move into that position and Ante trusted me.
“I have found my groove in the team and it is a really enjoyable position for me.
“I have been working hard and playing pretty strong so I hope I can play in this game as it would be really awesome and exciting,” she concluded.
You can cheer on Margaux and the Sky Blue Squad this Saturday at Leichhardt Oval or via broadcast.
Match Details:
Sydney FC v Central Coast Mariners
Liberty A-League Semi Final 2nd Leg
Saturday 27th April 2024
Leichhardt Oval, Sydney, NSW
Kick Off: 3:00pm AEST
Gates Open: 2:00pm AEST
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ & 10Play
Tickets: Click Here
