Adelaide United FC and Melbourne City FC will take part in a pre-season friendly in Alice Springs on Saturday afternoon, as part of a concerted effort from Hyundai A-League clubs to bring football to regional Australia.
After coming off a commanding 5-0 win against local NPLV side Hume City on Tuesday night, Melbourne City travels to central Australia looking to test their squad against Hyundai A-League opposition.
The club is making its third trip to regional Australia this pre-season with trips to Bendigo and Lismore still to come. The full senior list is scheduled to travel to the red centre with a number of trialists also playing for a spot on the senior or NYL lists.
New signing Damien Duff put in another strong performance on Tuesday night and will get a real taste of Australian conditions when he touches down. Robert Koren will be in a similar position to the Irishman and will be monitored closely in terms of minutes and match fitness.
City will also be undertaking clinics and community events over the weekend, as the Hyundai A-League connects with the local community in “The Alice”.
Meanwhile Adelaide United have already been engaging in numerous community visits as part of their trip and committment to bringing football to the Northern Territory. The Reds squad took time out from their training schedule on Friday to visit local schools, the town’s Nature Centre and host a training camp.
For United this trip is not just about playing football. It’s about getting out in the community, promoting the area, assisting young people by promoting healthy lifestyles and decisions, developing better coaches and giving as many youngsters the opportunities to become involved in our great game.
ANZAC Oval, where the match is to be played, has hosted a National Rugby League pre-seaon match in 2006 but this will be the first time Hyundai A-League teams will play at the ground, introducing football to new territory. Â
Match Details
Pre-Season Friendly
Saturday 23 August 2014
Adelaide United vs. Melbourne City FC
ANZAC Oval
Kick-Off: 3.30pm (Local Time), 3pm (AEST)
Tickets
Tickets will be available over the counter at Intersport Alice Springs (formerly Centralian Sports), Hot Stuff for the Sporting Buff and Sportspower. Tickets will also be available at the gate (cash only).
Unreserved Grandstand Seating
Adults: $10
Concession and under 16: $10
Children under 5: FREE
Family Pass (2 adults, 2 children): $40Â
General Admission
Adults: $10
Concession and under 16: $5
Children under 5: FREE
Family Pass (2 adults, 2 children): $25
