Positive virus test can’t red-card Sky Blues’ Cup tie
SYDNEY FC’s FFA Cup round of 16 tie against Macarthur FC will go ahead on Wednesday night despite Sky Blues’ right back Rhyan Grant testing positive for Covid-19.
Grant, who is fully vaccinated, returned a positive result on Tuesday after experiencing symptoms on Sunday night and taking a Covid test on Monday.
As a result, all of Sydney FC’s players and football staff have since undergone Covid testing and have taken daily rapid antigen tests as an Australian Premier Leagues (APL) procedure.
The Sydney FC women’s squad is unaffected by the positive test, and will continue to train and play matches as usual.
Sydney FC boss Danny Townsend said Grant was only displaying “minor symptoms”.
“We have taken every precaution necessary to ensure the safety of our players and staff, who are considered casual contacts,” Townsend said.
“No further players or staff members have reported any symptoms, however they have all taken tests to be sure.
“Sydney FC and the APL follow the strongest protocols to ensure we minimise any risk to our staff, players and members and fans, and hopefully there will be no further cases as a result of these procedures.
“Our medical team have been in regular contact with the player in question and have been providing advice.
“He has only minor symptoms and is in good spirits.”
The Sky Blues have endured a frustrating start to their 2021/22 A-League campaign, having been held to two draws and a loss. An opening-round derby draw against cross-town rivals Western Sydney Wanderers was followed by a disappointing defeat to Macarthur.
Steve Corica’s side squandered a two-goal lead against the Newcastle Jets last Saturday, although a controversial VAR call caused plenty of debate as to whether a third Sydney goal was rightfully rubbed off.