Melbourne’s Thompson sights mini final against Sydney

Melbourne Victory striker Archie Thompson is looking forward to what he describes as a ‘mini-grand final’ against Sydney FC on Saturday night.

The all-time A-League leading goalscorer says the fierce sporting rivalry between the two cities plus the fact it is first versus second bodes well for a classic contest in front of an expected healthy crowd at Etihad Stadium.

Although the Victory’s form hasn’t been to flash at home this season, Thompson expects that to change when the Sky Blues come to town.

“With Sydney only three points off top, it's like a mini-grand final," Thompson said.

"We know that Sydney have one over us at home (3-0 at Etihad in October) and it was a clinical performance from them. But we're starting to put two halves together and when we do put two halves together it showed on Saturday (in the 3-0 win at Central Coast)."

Thompson says it is important for the Victory to get three points from the match as it would put them in an enviable position of grabbing a top-two finish.

"Teams can lose a couple of games or win a couple of games and be right back in it," Thompson added.

"If we can get a win on the weekend, we're definitely on our way to securing a top-two (position) and then go on with it and win a championship."

The Victory hosts Sydney FC this Saturday night at Etiahd Stadium in Melbourne – kick-off is at 8:00pm.