A heart-breaking late winner from William Mutch consigned the Wolves to a 2-1 defeat in the corresponding fixture last season.

The defeat later proved costly to Wollongong’s pursuit of finals football, which they ultimately missed out on by three points.

“That loss last year came at a crucial time so we have to be wary of them,” Timpano said.

“We haven’t used it as motivation in any way, but the boys will remember conceding those goals late in the match.

“It will be a reminder for the boys to expect a tough match because that’s what we are going to get.”

The two clubs meet again at Lambert Park this weekend. Wollongong head into the encounter in decent form after chalking up their first victory of the season with a 1-0 win over Rockdale City Suns last week.

Timpano confirmed he will keep the same starting line-up for their clash with the Sky Blues, who have a revamped squad in 2018.

“They are a bit of a tricky team with a lot of talented, young and enthusiastic players,” Timpano said.

“They can be difficult to play against and won their first round match this year. They should have beaten Sutherland last week as well had they taken their chances.

“They have a lot to offer.”

The match is the first of four consecutive road games for the Wolves.