Robbie Cornthwaite: “We need cool, calm heads to win this”

STARING down the barrel of this weekend’s Derby, the Wanderers ooze confidence to bring home a win for passionate fans.

WHENEVER Western Sydney Wanderers take on Sydney FC for a Sydney Derby, it’s undoubtedly one of the most anticipated matches of the A-League but with nine straight derby losses, the Red and Black are learning the true definition of determination in the face of their strongest rivals.

Wanderers’ defender, Robbie Cornthwaite, said despite the odds being stacked against them, his team is in the driver’s seat to take out the win against the unbeatable Sky Blue.

Robbie Cornthwaite during Western Sydney Wanderers training at Spotless Stadium, Homebush. Picture: Gregg Porteous

“We’ve been watching over our previous matches to see where we can improve and focused that into our training sessions and our whole camp believes we’re in the perfect position to win this weekend,” he said.

With an crowd of over 50,000 expected to head to ANZ stadium, Cornthwaite said all the Wanderers want to do is give their passionate fans something to celebrate.

“Our supporters pay hard earned money to come and watch us play each week and we just want to repay them by playing hard and give them the win.”

The Wanderers have come close to defeating Sydney FC, drawing twice, giving them plenty to focus on, and they’re position gives them an advantage to understand their cross city rivals.

Emotions will be running high on Saturday night but Cornthwaite said despite the excitement of the crowd what they need is to remain composed in the box.

“We need cool, calm heads to win this,” Cornthwaite said.

With the Wanderers oozing confidence and self-belief, this weekend’s match is looking like it may be the A-League’s game-changer.

Sydney's Filip Holosko holds off Wanderers' Jonathan Aspropotamitis during the Round 15 A-League match between Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers at the Allianz Stadium in Sydney on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017. Photo: AAP Image/David Moir

South West Metropolitan Region Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Dave Eardley, reminded fans to keep the rivalry family-friendly this weekend and plan their journey ahead of time.

“The Sydney Derby has become one of the highest-profile matches in the A-League so we’re urging fans to make sure they enjoy the match in the true spirit of the game,” Acting Assistant Commissioner said.

Wanderers fans during the A-League games between Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers FC at Allianz Stadium. Picture: Jonathan Ng

“We acknowledge it has attracted a healthy dose of team rivalry; however, we want to ensure people keep it friendly and safe so everyone can enjoy the game.

“Police have also been working closely with security, Football Federation Australia (FFA), and the respective clubs to maintain a fun atmosphere for all football fans — including families,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Eardley said.

Given the significant crowds expected, ticketholders are urged to plan their journey to the grounds ahead of time.

Kick-off starts 7:50pm at ANZ Stadium, Olympic Park with public transport included in all match tickets.