They may have developed a fierce rivalry with Sydney United 58 over the years, but the Wollongong Wolves will be purely focused on securing three vital points on Sunday.
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The two clubs will do battle at Albert Butler Park, scene of last year's spiteful semi-final. Both sides were reduced to 10 men late in the first half, Sydney United eventually prevailing 3-1.
Wolves coach Luke Wilkshire is expecting another physical contest and he's confident it will be his side which comes out on top.
"They're a team that's always been there or thereabouts," Wilkshire said. "With what we've done over the last few years, it creates a rivalry.
"They're trying to fight for a premiership, we're trying to get ourselves into the playoffs. There's plenty at stake.
"For us, what's happened in the past is in the past. We have to focus on what's in front of us and that's getting another three points, it doesn't matter who it's against."
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Sunday's match comes after the Wolves midweek Waratah Cup clash with APIA Leichhardt was postponed due to Sydney's COVID-19 outbreak.
With residents of the inner west banned from leaving the city, APIA were unable to travel south.
Sydney United are in the clear, the club's Edensor Park base well away from the seven local government areas under heavier restrictions.
Coming off a loss to Marconi last week, Wilkshire said it's crucial his side executes in front of goal.
"They're good going forward, so we need to be aware defensively but we also have to be more clinical upfront."
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Cameron Mee
Sports reporter at the Canberra Times
Sports reporter at the Canberra Times
