Sydney FC to face Wellington Phoenix in A-League return
Sydney FC's race to the premiership will recommence on July 17 against Wellington Phoenix at Netstrata Stadium in Kogarah after Football Federation Australia confirmed dates for the resumption of the A-League season.
A flexible draw has been sent to all 11 A-League clubs that will allow for schedule changes to accommodate any relaxation of border controls and restrictions, potentially allowing fans to attend the final round of games and finals series.
Sydney FC will face Wellington in their first match after the suspension of the A-League. Credit:Getty
While many fixtures remain interchangeable, what is certain is the season will begin on July 16 with Melbourne Victory facing Western United before Sydney FC's match against the Phoenix the next day. The A-League is planning to play the majority of games in NSW at Bankwest Stadium in Parramatta, Netsrata Stadium in Kogarah and McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle but could allow the likes of Adelaide and Brisbane to host games if their respective state border restrictions change during the season.
“We have developed multiple draw options for the completion of the regular season,” FFA’s head of the A-League, Greg O’Rourke, said.
“The reason for having multiple draw options – which our clubs are across – is due to the fact that over the next few weeks there may be additional relaxations in border restrictions and travel movements in Australia, which may enable our clubs from Victoria, Queensland and South Australia to remain and play in their home cities, rather than relocating to NSW to complete the season."
Wellington Phoenix are yet to arrive in Australia where they will spend 14 days in isolation at Football NSW's facility in Valentine Park. They will be able to be in quarantine but still train as a team. They are expected to be granted their travel permit this week.
Sydney FC were runaway ladder leaders before the league was shut down.