Dear Victory members and fans,
As you would be aware, last Wednesday 19 January it was prematurely announced that our FFA Cup semi-final against Wellington Phoenix FC would be played at GMHBA Stadium in Geelong on Saturday 29 January.
Prior to this announcement (and even since the announcement was made), the Club has been working with Football Australia, the A-Leagues and stadium management to explore alternative days, times and options so we could play our semi-final match at AAMI Park, our preferred and home venue, with as little interruption as possible to our Isuzu A-League Men’s fixture.
Due to a number of factors, including the AAMI Park precinct events schedule, staffing requirements through COVID, broadcast alignment and the sheer number of games the Club, and other A-League clubs have to play over the next few months on the pitch, AAMI Park is unfortunately not an option for our FFA semi-final match.
In determining an alternative venue, we wanted to prioritise the requirements of our football department, noting it is our first game back from COVID on Tuesday night.
After considering all available venues on the set date, GMHBA Stadium provides the Club with the best pitch and facilities to host a match of this level, in comparison to other smaller suburban grounds.
With the heavy demands on our team, to make up games to complete the season due to another COVID affected season, it is important that we provide the best pitch and facilities for their long term health and wellbeing.
The boys have also played two games at GMHBA Stadium, one pre-season and one in-season, which provides a level of familiarity which they would not have had at any of the available suburban grounds.
While we understand playing at GMHBA Stadium is not the preference of our members and fans, we would love to see you all there cheering on our boys in blue for our FFA semi-final match on Saturday night.
Members would have received an email with details on a special shuttle to the venue and how to register for the journey.
More details will follow in the coming days as to how to book tickets for Victory’s semi-final match against Wellington Phoenix.
We are working with the stadium on measures to ensure it is the best experience for all attending members and fans.
Kick-off is confirmed for 5.35pm AEDT with the winner to meet Central Coast Mariners in the decider for a chance to lift the first piece of silverware on offer this season and an opportunity to compete in the Asian Champions League.
I hope to see you there to help me cheer on the boys.
Caroline Carnegie
Managing Director
Melbourne Victory
