3 minute read
Perth Glory don't want to give Sydney FC a leg-up heading into the A-League finals, placing high value on their table-topping clash.
Perth Glory's players are physically weary but mentally up for the fight against Sydney FC in a game they believe holds serious A-League finals bragging rights.
With the Premiers Plate tucked away courtesy of Sunday night's 1-0 home win over Newcastle, the Glory want to lift for Thursday's table-topping fixture against the Sky Blues at Jubilee Stadium.
Striker Joel Chianese concedes the four-day turnaround is a hurdle, particularly given the celebrations that followed the clinching of Perth's first piece of A-League silverware.
"We enjoyed the celebrations and it does take its toll. We put a lot of effort into that game the other day to make sure the fans got what they wanted," he said.
"But at the same time you want to keep that momentum going and keep performing well."
Chianese said if the Glory ease off against Sydney it may not be easy to "flick the switch" for bigger games ahead.
One more regular season game at home to Wellington would follow and then a week off awaits before their knockout home semi-final.
"We know we've been the best team all year but, at the same time, if they (Sydney) beat us now then we lose a bit of momentum and they get the upper hand," Chianese said.
"You don't know what happens from there."
Chianese said the packed January schedule, when Perth played eight games in the space of a month, has toughened them for short breaks between games.
Coach Tony Popovic, nevertheless, said he will consider resting players if he sees any signs of fatigue and is confident there is sufficient depth in the playing group to handle multiple changes.
Spanish midfielder Juande (groin) and Socceroos fullback Jason Davidson (knee) are both unlikely starters after they suffered knocks against the Jets.
Popovic is taking a cautious approach with attacker Chris Ikonomidis (shoulder) and will only restore the Socceroos ace if given full clearance by medical staff.
