Melbourne Victory head coach Tony Popovic added his voice to calls to reverse the move to award A-Leagues Grand Final hosting rights to Sydney.
Popovic on Friday backed fans, who have vented their anger over the decision in an intense backlash for the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) – the body which administers the A-League Men and Women competitions.
Many are planning boycotts and protests at this weekend’s games, in opposition to the three-year deal between the APL and the NSW government.
Rival Victory and Melbourne City supporter groups are set to walk out of AAMI Park at the 20-minute mark of Saturday night’s blockbuster derby.
Victory chairman Anthony Di Pietro resigned from his position on the APL board on Tuesday, saying he could no longer maintain his role as a director of the umbrella organisation while also advocating for the club.
“Clearly our chairman is pushing hard and working hard to try and get the APL to reverse the decision,” Popovic said on Friday.
“Our fans have voiced their concerns and ultimately they want to show through their actions tomorrow how they feel about it.
“Our players have spoken about (the planned protest) – they fully understand it, respect it, and most importantly agree with it.”
Popovic remains united with supporters opposed to the divisive APL decision.
“I understand the fans and agree, from experience,” the former Socceroos defender said.
“I’ve had four grand final experiences, home and away, and what our code brings here is something unique.
“The team that earns the right to play at home can create an amazing atmosphere, and it’s special for those fans.
“It’s also special for the opposing team and clubs and fans that travel to a hostile environment. It’s something special that we have in our game.”
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash with Sydney FC, Central Coast Mariners coach Nick Montgomery said there was a “strange lack of communication” from the APL about the Grand Final decision but conceded such moves were beyond his control.
“It’s way above my pay grade,” Montgomery said.
“I’m sure the powers that be will all have discussions and hopefully by the end of it, they can come to an agreement that’s going to be beneficial for football in this country moving forward.”
