The build-up is on for Sunday afternoon’s Sydney Derby and Ninja A-League head coach Geoff Abrahams is feeling the energy around Marconi Stadium.
With the rivalry between Western Sydney and their city rivals, every derby carries weight, but Abrahams is keeping the focus on preparation and process.
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“As someone who’s been at the club a long time, obviously it means a lot. The players know what it means, as do our supporters,” Abrahams said.
“But for us, the players and staff on the field, we have to focus on the process a bit. When they get out there on the pitch, things will naturally elevate because of the occasion, but we’re just sticking to our process and the little details that make us good.
“To be honest, we haven’t done anything differently; we haven’t strayed too far from what we do week in, week out.”
It’s a derby with extra motivation this year, as the Wander Women look to end a long drought in this historic clash.
The club hasn’t recorded a Sydney Derby win since 2019, and the players are determined to make their mark.
“We can create some new history. Everything the club has done and this team is doing, we’re in a different place to where we’ve been in the past,” Abrahams said.
“I think that’s why I said, rather than thinking about the past, it’s good to focus on the game in front of us and do everything we can to win it.”
Adding intrigue to the fixture are the team’s new Chinese signings, Wang Ying and Yuan Cong, who are set to feature in their first Sydney Derby.
Both have made a strong impression off the field and Abrahams is excited to see what they bring on the pitch.
“They’ll both play a part this weekend. They’re both great girls, everyone’s enjoying their company, and they’ve fitted in really well. It’ll take a little time for them to gel, but there’s some exciting stuff about them, and I think we’ll see them at some point over the weekend,” he said.
With energy high, history on the line, and exciting new talent ready to make an impact, the Wander Women head into Marconi Stadium full of confidence.
Members and fans can expect a passionate, high-intensity clash as Western Sydney aims to reclaim the bragging rights in the city.
Sunday’s Sydney Derby promises to be a must-watch showdown, with plenty of drama and excitement in store.
