Sydney FC defender says A-League’s flare drama won’t distract team from Wanderers derby clash

SYDNEY FC defender Matt Jurman says the drama surrounding flares at A-League games won’t be a distraction heading into a season-defining game.

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SYDNEY FC defender Matt Jurman says the drama surrounding flares at A-League matches will not be a distraction as his team prepares to take on the Western Sydney Wanderers in their final local derby encounter for the season.

“I’m just focused on my own team and our play,” said Jurman (pictured). “I’m definitely not worried about their fans and what they do in the crowd, I’m just thinking about putting in a top performance for my club.”

Coming off a 2-1 loss to Perth Glory at the weekend, Jurman said winning Saturday’s derby would be pivotal as the season approaches the home stretch.

Matt Jurman says his team won’t be distracted heading into the final debry of the season.

“We need to go on a good run and get a few wins in a row, which would put us straight back up there,” he said.

With just eight games to play, a win over their arch rivals could vault FC into the top four and put them in a strong position to make back-to-back grand final appearances.

But Jurman played down any thought of the finals, saying his sole focus was on the game at hand.

“We’re feeling pretty good despite the game against Perth, but it could be better,” he said.

“Our preparation this week will be normal like any other game, but there is always a bit more meaning to it playing against them (Wanderers).

Fans let off a flare in the match between Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City at the weekend. Picture: Colleen Petch.

“We love winning these games and we’ll be up for it.”

His team will be looking to make a sweep of the derbies this season after winning in rounds three and 15. Jurman set up Shane Smeltz for the winner in their last clash and said he was ready to step up again if needed.

“I’ll definitely be looking to make an impact but my number one job is to keep the strikers quiet. If I can help out at the other end, all the better,” he said.

Originally published as Sydney FC defender says A-League’s flare drama won’t distract team from Wanderers derby clash