Previous W-League Grand Finals have traditionally been high scoring affairs. Sydney fans will no doubt remember their team’s dominant performance back in 2009.
For the first time in the league’s five-year history, Australia’s sporting capital will play host to the Westfield W-League Grand Final. Heavyweights Sydney FC will be hoping to take out their second title at AAMI Park this Sunday, but will have to overcome in-form hosts Melbourne Victory, who are looking for their first ever championship victory.
Despite finishing top of the table, 2013 is the first year Brisbane Roar won’t play a part in the Grand Final. But whether finals veterans Sydney or interstate rivals Melbourne will take home a piece of footballing history this weekend is anyone’s guess. So what can we expect from this epic clash?
Previous W-League Grand Finals have traditionally been high scoring affairs. Sydney fans will no doubt remember their team’s dominant performance back in 2009 to snatch the crown from Brisbane with a 3-2 victory, while just last year Canberra United also got the better of the Roar in a five-goal thriller. If past finals are anything to go by, we can surely expect Sunday’s clash to boast at least a goal or two.
One Sydney player to keep an eye on is Sam Kerr, who racked up a handful of goals in the regular season before claiming a game-winning brace last weekend in her club’s semi final victory. The teenager has had a stellar season so far and will be looking to continue her fantastic form alongside her Sky Blue teammates this weekend.
For the Victory, there are several players who can produce the magic when it’s required. Their cracking goal-scoring record in recent months suggests it won’t be just one star player on show, but a concerted effort from a team that’s confident and always willing to put the ball in the back of the net.
Whatever the result, it’s been a wonderful 2012/13 for women’s football in Australia. Newcomers Western Sydney Wanderers FC produced some marvellous football and even looked on form to reach the finals at one point. Perth Glory also had a phenomenal second half of the season, while Melbourne Victory have quite simply been remarkable in front of goal.
The final is anyone’s for the taking, and no doubt both Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory will be up for the fight of their lives come kick-off.
If you’re heading to the W-League Grand Final at AAMI Park this Sunday, you can purchase tickets onlineor at the venue. The game will also be shown live on ABC1 at 3.30pm.
