by Tim McGlone
Melbourne Victory's Gui Finkler believes this Sunday's Grand Final against Sydney FC will be won by whichever side can keep their focus for the entire 90 minutes.
The Brazilian playmaker said both teams are physically ready for the match, and whoever has the mental edge will make the difference in the season decider.
"It becomes the whole season in 90 minutes," said the 29-year old.
"We have to be hungry, and more hungry (than Sydney) to be successful in the game.
"The most important thing will become who can concentrate, and whoever is more mentally ready, will win."
The two biggest clubs in the A-League have been evenly matched all season, playing three times for three draws in the regular season. Twice there was a scoreline of 3-3 in these fixtures.
Victory will enter the game full of confidence after dispatching local rivals Melbourne City 3-0 last Friday night.
Finkler has been in outstanding form this season, and will play a key role in Victory's famed attacking quartet which also includes Besart Berisha, Kosta Barbarouses and Fahid Ben Khalfallah.
The Brazilian spent time of a series of clubs in England, Belgium and his native country before moving to the Victory in 2012.
Despite his experience, Finkler said that this Sunday's match was one of the biggest of his career.
"I have played in a final before 60,000, 70,000 people when I was in Brazil. But I cannot influence that game now," he added.
"So for me, it is always about the moment. The moment I'm living right now, it's a Grand Final.
"So yes, it's a grand final and it's the biggest game that I will be involved in.
"Everyone (wanted) to be in the Grand Final, and we are in the Grand Final. It's the biggest game in the season.
"Everyone is just looking forward to Sunday."
