Couldn’t get enough of the FIFA World Cup? The Hyundai A-League kicks off tonight and presents a brilliant opportunity for new fans that discovered their love for the game only this year to get behind a local team and solidify their fandom further.
Football, (or soccer as it is often known in Australia), is the world’s most popular sport for a reason. It creates suspense, ecstasy, and despair. Far from being a low-scoring bore, the suspense between goals builds and builds for fans until it culminates with either sheer joy or utter heartbreak. It is simply sport at its finest.
The Hyundai A-League brings a touch of Down Under to their games, with their modest salary caps showing the European Leagues exactly what it means to play for the love of the sport. Those new to the A-League couldn’t find a better way to introduce themselves than by watching or attending Saturday night’s clash between the 2010 Grand Finalists Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC. Arguably the biggest rivalry in the A-League, both teams have a number of exciting players that passionate fans get vivaciously behind. Archie Thompson for Melbourne Victory was the highest goal scorer in the 2009-2010 season. He joins Carlos Hernandez, winner of last season’s Johnny Warren Medal for the best overall player. Sydney also has a famous name in their ranks, Socceroo Nicky Carle, who is the one player exempt from the salary cap rule in the team. Sydney FC won last seasons closely contested affair as well as the Fair Play award. You can be assured they will want to make a winning start to their title defence.
For those who feel their loyalties may lie elsewhere there are many other games to watch over the week, including Melbourne Heart’s debut game against the Central Coast Mariners at AAMI Park on Thursday night. There will be an extra thirty matches played this year as the A-League expands, proving that soccer is growing within Australia. So for those of you who think soccer may be your kind of sport, tune in to some matches on Fox Sports or watch one live, the best way to experience any sport. In the words of the FFA CEO, Ben Buckley, ‘there are no other fans in Australia that are as passionate, inspiring, organised, and as dedicated.’ So head down and find out what all the hype is about. One thing is for sure: new fans are always welcome.
Sydney FC vs. Melbourne Victory
Saturday the 7th of August, 2010. Kick off is at 8pm at the Sydney Football Stadium.
Tickets available from Ticketek.
