Western United plotting local dominance ahead of their first Victorian derby
Western United’s undefeated opening to the season is better than any of the league’s previous expansion clubs have done. But the new kids on the block are far from content as the first Victorian derby approaches.
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Western United are plotting to inflict damage on their new local rivals, as they dare to dream of becoming Victoria’s top dog after producing the best start to a season for an A-League expansion club.
Coach Mark Rudan declared “disappointment” after conceding a late equaliser at home to Perth Glory last Saturday, after Panagiotis Kone’s stunning opener.
United’s undefeated opening is even better than Western Sydney Wanderers’ start to their inaugural 2012-13 campaign when they went on to finish top of the ladder before losing in the grand final.
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Rudan said the players have reacted at training this week, ahead of Sunday’s home clash (GMHBA Stadium) against Melbourne City.
“Four points from six, undefeated for a new club. Not a bad start, but the feeling was one of disappointment,” Rudan said.
“We know we’re the new kids on the block. That rivalry between Victory and City is there and has been established.
“But we want to play our part, we want to be taken seriously. I don’t know how (rival fans) will react or treat us, time will tell.
“We’ll take it seriously, we understand what the derby means and being the best Melbourne team in Victoria is something I know the players have spoken about as well.
“I don’t know what that means as an end target. It is certainly a goal of theirs.”
Rudan, who is just in his second A-League season after a lengthy apprenticeship with NPL club Sydney United, is the only Aussie among the local coaching ranks, alongside Victory’s German Marco Kurz and City’s Frenchman Erick Mombaerts.
“I’m at the start of my career, quite a young coach. I’m humbled to be able to coach against these guys. You want to pit your wits against the best and they’re two of the best in the competition,” he said.
“I respect both coaches. I got to know Marco a bit last year — fantastic guy, great coach, deserves to be at a big club.
“Kurz has got my measure so far — we drew once and lost twice and he beat me in pre-season.
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“They’re being well coached — certain patterns in their play that are quite clear.
“To have someone of his experience and expertise in our league — it’s only going to be of benefit to (Australian football).”