Sydney geared up for top of table clash

Old rivalries are set to re-ignite this Friday night in what is sure to be one of the games of the season when Sydney FC plays Melbourne Victory in a top-of-the-table clash at Etihad Stadium.

At the centre of the contest will be the personal battle between one of the league’s most tenacious defenders, Simon Colosimo and Melbourne’s most lethal attacking weapon, Archie Thompson - and Colosimo is relishing the forthcoming test.

“Playing against Archie, as hard as it is, it’s actually quite fun too because he is such a wonderful player,” said Colosimo.

“You know, you get to put yourself up against it (the challenge) which is great. It’s going to be lots of fun that’s for sure.”

Having re-claimed the outright lead in the Hyundai A-League competition on Monday, the 30-year old is confident his side is ready for the challenge of facing Melbourne on its home turf.

“We feel that we’re a good chance (to win) as we go into every game thinking that we can do well and get the result,” he said. “It’s all about getting our bodies right - getting there on Friday night and going through the same process as we did for Monday. We need to work hard together firstly, and get our football right and we’ll definitely be in the game.”

In what is always a tight derby the central defender knows that a solitary goal may be the difference between the two teams and is focused on minimising Victory’s scoring opportunities.

“We have been a bit disappointed with a couple of goals conceded before Monday’s win, so one of our aims, especially as a back four is to finish with a clean sheet. We did that (against the Mariners) but Clint (Bolton) made some really good saves and we know Melbourne will throw everything at us on Friday.”

A win would see the Sky Blues confirm their position as clear league leaders and Colosimo believes Monday’s result has them set up for victory.

“The boys were excellent against the Mariners and it’s nice to be sitting there (in first). We really showed that we know how to work together as a team and we want to build on that this weekend.”