Melbourne’s big-name stars are hoping a huge crowd packs into Telstra Dome on Friday night when Victory opens its home campaign against Newcastle.
Melbourne’s big-name stars are hoping a huge crowd packs into Telstra Dome on Friday night when Victory opens its home campaign against Newcastle.
Melbourne, the 2006/07 premiers and champions, heads into battle against last year’s champions after six weeks on the road.
The road trip has netted the Pre-Season Cup trophy and four points from games in Sydney and Wellington to kick-start the year.
The players are looking forward to a lively ‘Dome-coming’ against the undefeated Jets.
Goalkeeper Michael Theoklitos was one brimming with excitement after the players were put through their paces by Ernie Merrick on Tuesday morning.
“It’s great to be back home after six weeks away. They are the champions and we are looking to knock them off their perch,” Theoklitos said.
“Hopefully the fans can see the positive results that we’ve had in winning the Pre-Season Cup and making a positive start to the season and get behind us.”
“They (the supporters) will definitely make a difference and hopefully get us over the line.”
Brazilian recruit Ney Fabiano has not played before a passionate Telstra Dome crowd since joining the club.
“I feel very happy to play at home. We have been playing away for more than a month,” Fabiano said.
“We must play the same way we have been playing away, that is very aggressive. We need to look for the three points and not just one.”
Fabiano is also keen to see striker Archie Thompson do his stuff on the big stage.
“He is one of the best players there is and the best players must play to entertain and show what they have got for the crowds,” Fabiano said.
“He helps the team a lot with scoring and creating and causes danger in the box.”
Defender Roddy Vargas echoed his team-mates’ thoughts on playing in front of the league’s most passionate fans.
“I am sure the fans will be itching to get back and see some good football at Telstra Dome on Friday,” he said.
