Sydney FC skipper Alex Wilkinson is calling on Sky Blue fans to create an intimidating atmosphere for the Wanderers when the latest Sydney Derby ignites at Allianz Stadium tonight.
Around 35,000 fans turned up for the first clash between the two teams at Moore Park in November, creating a deafening noise throughout the 90 minutes of a classic encounter.
And Wilkinson is looking for a similar experience tonight.
“The Derby is a chance to make a statement,” he said.
“As players, we want the atmosphere to be intimidating for the Wanderers.”
Having knocked back an offer to join the Wanderers in the off-season, Alex Wilkinson will proudly wear the captains armband this weekend at the newly re-built Allianz Stadium.
Wilkinson missed the opening Sydney Derby of the season due to injury and is looking forward to Saturday’s encounter.
“It’s great to be back, I am pumped for the derby. We beat them last time and they got us at our place early in the season, so everything is to play for.
“Both teams need to win, it will be fiery on Saturday night, especially early on, the first 20 minutes usually sees tackles flying in and chances at both ends.
“We can’t wait, I’m sure they are the same,” he concluded.
Sydney FC Head Coach Steve Corica has seen his fair share of Sydney Derbies along with Wilkinson and knows what this 90 minutes means to the supporters.
He spent many years of his career on the pitch and after transitioning straight into a coaching role upon his retirement, Corica understands what is required in the big moments.
“This game is about doing the best for your football club and my club is right here at Sydney FC.
“It’s about winning, it doesn’t matter what he [Rudan] says, it’s about our team performing on the night,” Corica added
As someone who has experienced the biggest atmospheres in Australian football, Steve Corica knows how important a strong home crowd is in a fixture of this magnitude.
“Our players love playing in front of big crowds and this game is perfect for it with more than 30,000 expected.
“We just wanna win and it’s a great match to be involved in,” he concluded.
Match Details
Sydney FC v Western Sydney Wanderers
Isuzu UTE A-League Round 21
Saturday 18th March 2023
Allianz Stadium, Sydney, NSW
Kick Off: 7:45pm AEDT
Gates Open: 6:15pm AEDT
Broadcast Live: Paramount+ & 10Bold
Tickets: Click Here
