Sydney FC upped the intensity at training on Tuesday in one of their last genuine hit-outs before Sunday’s blockbuster Hyundai A-League grand final against Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park.
Every member of the squad took some part in an intense session, which included a full scale 10 v 10 game.
After being rested from Monday’s session, skipper Alex Brosque made an appearance but was restricted to jogging a few laps and stretching.
Sydney FC training update: Brosque rested
The in-form attacker and former Socceroo is suffering from some stiffness after Saturday’s two-goal haul against Adelaide United on a poor pitch at Allianz.
With coach Graham Arnold to give his squad Thursday off, it means Brosque will have just one proper session with the side on Friday before they head south on Saturday morning.
An NRL match at AAMI Park on Saturday night means neither the Sky Blues or Victory will get a chance to train at the venue ahead of the decider.
Imports Jacques Faty and Mickael Tavares, plus midfielder Terry Antonis, all took part in the session.
Young defender Alex Gersbach, who turned 18 just earlier this month, admits the nerves are kicking in just days out from the biggest match of his life.
“Yeah I’m nervous, I think everyone feels nervous before a grand final,” Gersbach said. “But it’s more excitement I think.”
It’s been some debut season for Gersbach, starting in 16 games in between completing his HSC at the end of 2014.
With Nikola Petkovic likely to start at left-back on Sunday, Gersbach is fighting to win a spot on the bench to take on Victory.
“It’s been an amazing year for me,” Gersbach said.
“I came into the team and I had to do my HSC right at the start of the season and got through that pretty well.
“Now we’ve made the grand final and it’s just topped off the season. It’s unbelievable.
“If we can win the grand final it would just top it all off.”
