AAMI Park - Melbourne's newest stadium
The
Hyundai A-League will soon enter its seventh season, minus a team (North Queensland Fury) but gaining a host of local and international talent.
For years the competition has been built on the foundations of cross town rivalry, returning heroes and marquee signings, but now such factors have been established, and the play is the focus.
The speed of the game has risen to such a degree that the Australian national coach now relies upon many of the stars littered through-out the ten teams. This season approaches with excitement and purpose, and many highlights give reason to this.
Rivalry is a word thrown around too often in sport. Soccer is one game that displays the depth of the term, as crowds are separated, friends become foes and emotions fly amongst clubs that are bitter enemies.
This competition boasts various games that come under the spotlight, mostly due to the pride of cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, which reaches a climax in finals. But now, the biggest rivalry of all is about to change the Australian game: Melbourne Victory vs Melbourne Heart. It's the most successful club against the new boys on the block, filled with proud players that have represented our country. Last year was a snippet of what will follow, especially as a previous clash saw a tackle so dangerous that a leg was broken.
With so many players being scouted from the A-League and sent to Asia, Europe and South America, the class speaks for itself. Melbourne ensures fans of sport that no week shall be wasted, with the season beginning the week after the AFL's Grand Final.
Having two local teams says that a game will be played at either
Etihad Stadium or
AAMI Park (an impressive sight) nearly every weekend, both of which are easily accessible. Who knows, you may even see a future star of
Manchester United begin his journey in this very city.
There is no better way to bring in the summer than amongst a sea of blue or red, in an atmosphere that creates emotion and evokes passion.
Support your local team, as there is no better sight than a final hosted at Etihad Stadium which draws over 50,000 screaming fans and the attention of those all over the globe, looking for the next big thing in football.
Enjoy the warmer months watching a round ball, astonishing goals, joyous celebrations and a more physical version of the world game. With a spot in the AFC Champions League on the line, expect no surrender, no mercy. Ninety minutes, Ninety emotions.
