Round 7 preview: Melbourne City v Sydney FC

Ever since Melbourne City and Sydney FC met in the 2020 Grand Final, the title rivals have gone in almost opposite directions, but on Thursday, the reigning Premiers will be desperate to get one over on the new runaway leaders.

The Sky Blues have been perfect in 2020/21, recording four wins from four games to open up a lead at the top of the Westfield W-League ladder, and Ante Juric’s side will be looking to move another step closer to their first Premiership in a decade on Thursday night.

But, standing in their path are the double-title holders. Times have been tough since City edged Sydney 1-0 in the big dance back in March 2020, but Rado Vidosic’s side will not lie down easily as their grip on their 2019/20 Premiership loosens week-by-week, having only won one of their six matches in this campaign.

A stunning 3-2 triumph over crosstown rivals Melbourne Victory teased a turning point for City, but two defeats later and the Premiers-and-Champions are left needing to win out to give themselves a chance of reaching the Finals Series. The stakes are high at when these old enemies meet at Frank Holohan Reserve.