Ahead of Saturday’s huge Round 7 showdown with Sydney FC at HBF Park, we take a look back at our last meeting with the Sky Blues here in Perth.
For while the result was destined to be one that those of a purple persuasion would rather forget, there’s no denying that as an event, the 2019 Hyundai A-League Grand Final at Optus Stadium was definitely one to remember.
Glory’s thrilling semi-final win over Adelaide United had, of course, set the city abuzz, with Liam Reddy’s heroics and Joel Chianese’s nerveless sudden-death penalty-winner thrilling the bumper crowd of almost 18,000 at HBF Park.
And the impact of that victory travelled way beyond the Australian football community, with Reddy’s saves reaching tens of millions via the world’s biggest sports social media accounts (433 and SportsBible).
The build-up to the Grand Final then saw the city of Perth bathed in purple as excitement and anticipation levels reached new heights.
From Yagan Square to Optus Stadium, from the Matagarup Bridge to Elizabeth Quay, Perth was unavoidably purple.
On the day of reckoning, it wasn’t to be as as the Sky Blues prevailed on penalties.
Despite the result, however, the spectacle was one to remember for the Hyundai A-League.
Australia’s Grand Final attendance record was shattered as 56,371 fans flocked in through the gates at Optus Stadium; a top 10 figure for sports attendance at the arena.
Fast-forward 188 days and the rematch has finally arrived.
The rivalry will resume in earnest when the Sky Blues visit HBF Park on Saturday.
It’s set to be an absolute thriller under twilight hues in the West, so to secure your tickets, click HERE.
#OneGlory
