As we prepare to welcome English Premier League giant Arsenal to ANZ tonight against Sydney FC, we pick a top five tour matches in Australian history.
1: Melbourne Victory v Liverpool 2013 in Melbourne
The sight of over 98,000 at the MCG belting out “YNWA” remains an iconic image in the history of this great sporting venue.
It spurred the Reds to come back on numerous occasions since after Steven Gerrard inspired his side to a 2-0 win over Ange Postecoglou’s young Big V outfit.
2: A-League All Stars v Manchester United 2013 in Sydney
After the trophy-laden Fergie era ended, David Moyes’ first game in charge of the Red Devils was a happy one, winning 5-1 over a Berisha-Broich led A-League selection in front of 82,000 at ANZ.
Robin van Persie starred for the visitors, Berisha scored for the hosts (and was booed by the Sydney crowd after scoring!) but Moyes was out of a job later that following season. Danny Welbeck played for United, and he’s set to play tonight (Thurs) for Arsenal.
3: Brisbane Roar v Liverpool 2014 in Brisbane
Another magical night in the history of Liverpool in Oz, as over 50,000 at a chilly Suncorp belted out YNWA in front of Brendan Rodgers and his team, who edged John Aloisi’s Roar (his first game in charge) 2-1.
Luke Brattan for the hosts caught the eye after his classy display in midfield.
4: A-League All Stars v Juventus 2014 in Sydney
It was all about Alessandro Del Piero, who captained his adopted country’s select 11 against the club where he made his world name, Juventus.
The locals put up a fantastic effort against the Italian giant, who featured future Manchester United signing Paul Pogba, losing 3-2 to a late goal by Pepe in front of over 55,000 at ANZ. Carrusca and Juric on target for the local lads.
5: Australia B v Blackpool 1958 across Australia
The Messi of English football in the mid-50s was England striker Stanley Mathews (he was knighted later in life, such was his impact on the game). So when Mathews’ club Blackpool made the long journey to tour Australia, it was a huge story. On May 3 of that year, Blackpool kicked off a five-game tour with a 5-2 win over Australia B in Sydney in front of 24,000 fans. The Tangerines won all five of their touring games, scoring in total 25 goals with Mathews in the thick of the action.
