Sydney FC’s Adam Le Fondre and Rhyan Grant had goals disallowed during their 1-1 draw against Adelaide United at Allianz Stadium on Sunday. Although the result extended Sydney’s unbeaten run to seven consecutive games, the team may face a challenge in their upcoming season-defining clash with Melbourne City, as they wait for updates on injuries to Alex Lolley and Luke Ivanovic.

The injury concerns

Both Lolley and Ivanovic suffered hamstring injuries during the game, and it is unclear if they will be fit to play in next weekend’s match. Lolley described his hamstring as “not perfect” and will be doing everything he can to contribute again. Meanwhile, Ivanovic was substituted early due to his injury, and his status for next week’s game is also uncertain.

Corica’s concerns

Sydney FC head coach, Steve Corica, is aware of the importance of having Lolley and Ivanovic at his disposal. When speaking to Network 10, Corica said that the key was “looking after both of them” and expressed his hope to have the duo available for the season-defining clash with Melbourne City. Sydney could become the first interstate team since February 2022 to beat City at AAMI Park, and Corica believes his team is well-placed to do so.

The game highlights

Sydney FC created more chances than Adelaide United during the game, but both teams only managed to score one goal each. Le Fondre and Grant’s disallowed goals could have given Sydney the advantage, but the game ended in a draw. Corica praised his team’s performance, saying they “capitalised (on their chances)”, but acknowledged that they were set back early on by Adelaide’s goal. Despite this setback, Corica believes in his team’s character and their seven-game unbeaten run.

The upcoming game

Sydney FC will face Melbourne City on Friday, April 21, in a game that could define their season. The injury concerns surrounding Lolley and Ivanovic add another layer of uncertainty for Sydney, but Corica’s confidence in his team remains. Sydney will need to be at their best to beat City at their home ground, but if they can continue their impressive form, they have a good chance of upsetting the reigning Premiers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is Joe Lolley?

  Joe Lolley is a professional football player who plays for Sydney FC in the Australian A-League. He is a forward and has previously played for teams such as Huddersfield Town and Nottingham Forest in the English Football League.

• What is the A-League?

  The A-League is the top professional football league in Australia. It consists of 12 teams from various cities across the country and is run by Football Australia. The league operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the lower-tier National Premier Leagues.

• Where is AAMI Park?

  AAMI Park is a sports stadium located in Melbourne, Australia. It is situated in the Melbourne Sports and Entertainment Precinct, near the Yarra River and the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The stadium primarily hosts rugby union, rugby league, soccer, and concerts.

• What is Sydney FC’s record against Melbourne City?

  Sydney FC and Melbourne City have played each other many times over the years, with both teams having enjoyed periods of success. In recent times, Melbourne City have had the upper hand, winning three out of the last five meetings between the two sides. However, Sydney FC will be looking to turn the tide in their upcoming clash at AAMI Park.