Big Blue promises a thriller

IF the latest chapter of the “Big Blue” is half as dramatic as last season’s semi-final, it’s a heavyweight contest to savour between Sydney and Melbourne Victory on Sunday.

Sydney FC won’t have forgotten its epic 3-2 loss which halted what seemed an unerring march towards a second straight title.

Instead Terry Antonis’s memorable extra-time winner sent Victory on their way to a record fourth crown.

The undoubted match of round five also pits Victory creator Keisuke Honda against Sydney finisher Adam le Fondre in the clash of two red-hot imports.

The home side’s defence has been more robust, which is why they’re second on the ladder to Victory’s fourth.

The key could he a sold-out ubilee Stadium where a crowd of 20,000 will be baying for Victory’s blood although there’s no better team than Kevin Muscat’s champions when the stakes are raised.

Meanwhile, A-League nomads Western Sydney Wanderers want to increase their concentration span when they finally return home to play a Newcastle side still craving more goals.

Tonight’s game represents their first fixture of the season at Spotless Stadium.

The Wanderers have played just the one game in Sydney at the SCG but have otherwise lived up to their name by travelling far and wide.

“Of course it’s much better if we’re playing at home for the first games because if you win you can get some confidence but for us it’s not a problem,” defender Raul Llorente said.