Melbourne City striker Kyah Simon says ‘Derby Fever’ is just as big in the Westfield W-League and admits there’s extra motivation to beat crosstown rivals Melbourne Victory on Friday.
The match to kick-off Round 2 of the competition is part of a double-header with the Hyundai A-League at AAMI Park.
After an opening round loss to Perth Glory, champions City are desperate to bounce back and Simon says they’ll need to be at their best to topple Victory.
“It’s the derby, it’s always going to be a tough one. The cross city rivalry is always a big one,” Simon said.
“They [Victory] are going to be competitive, they got one up on us last year.
“I definitely think it would be a tough match. Everyone’s out to beat City. We have a lot to build on from our performance last week and I only think we’ll improve and get better.
“[The Derby rivalry] flows over from the A-League as well,” the 26-year-old added.
“There’s extra motivation to beat your cross-city rivals. There’s two teams in one city and there’s always bragging rights on the line, whether it’s men’s or women’s football.”
City were beaten 4-1 by Glory in the opening round, and Simon conceded it’s the only slip-up the side is allowing themselves this season.
She says the side have taken a number of positives from the clash at nib Stadium and have been working to fix the defensive lapses that hurt them badly.
And Simon hopes the extra atmosphere of a home crowd and the occasion of a double-header will bring out City’s best.
“I can’t wait. It’s my first home game here in Melbourne and it’s a double-header with the men and at AAMI Park as well,” the Westfield Matildas striker said.
“AAMI Park is my favourite stadium to play in Australia, it’s great pitch and I’m really hoping it’s going to be a great crowd out there in our game and then following on into the men’s game as well.
“I’m sure the girls are buzzing for it as well. I’m really hoping there will be a great atmosphere and hopefully we can put on a show for the crowd.”
