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Wanderers up for must-win A-League derby

3 minute read

Bragging rights and potentially a finals berth will be on the line for Western Sydney against Sydney FC, with the derby headlining Sunday's A-League action.

Scott McDonald.
Scott McDonald. Picture: Christopher Lee/Getty Images

Western Sydney striker Scott McDonald says the Wanderers must repeat their most recent Sydney derby heroics to keep their A-League finals hopes alive.

Sunday's clash with Sydney FC comes at a crucial point in the season for the Wanderers, who sit just outside the finals places.

McDonald, who scored in the Wanderers' 3-2 home derby win earlier this month, considers this SCG clash a must-win.

"(Last derby was) a huge victory for us and really put us back into position to reach those finals and we find ourselves three weeks later, pretty much in the same position again," McDonald said.

"So there's no question that they're all must-wins for us and it certainly is to keep up with the pack - to bring Sydney back in and draw them back in as well and draw a few others in.

"The results have been up and down for everyone so it's making for an interesting league right now and we firmly believe we can make it more interesting after Sunday."

Sydney FC counterpart Adam Le Fondre emphasised the need for the Sky Blues' attack - led by he and Bobo - to take their chances and end the club's six-game derby winless run.

"Obviously we've had all the success besides the derby ... this is the thing that's been lacking for us and as a club we're desperate to win this one," he said.

"The premiers plate's probably out of our reach but obviously winning the derby and reversing the results of the last few games is massive for us."

Fifth-placed Macarthur FC will head to Perth for the second time this month and attempt to go one better than their 0-0 draw with the Glory last time out.

The Glory have won four games on the bounce at HBF Park as they attempt to charge into a finals spot.

"They've got an excellent roster, particularly the depth that they have but also they've got a lot of experienced players in that front third and proven goal scorers," Bulls coach Ante Milicic said.

"If you look at the results they've achieved, moreso in the last month, but also their performances have been very good - so they're hitting form at the right time.

"We had a difficult game against them three weeks ago and we know that Sunday will be difficult again."

Elsewhere, Adelaide must beat strugglers Melbourne Victory to remain in touch with second spot.

The Reds are coming off a 2-1 loss to Perth but can deliver a clean sweep of their fierce rivals this season - and solidify their spot in finals - with a win at AAMI Park.

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