It was inevitable with just corporate seats left for sale in the last few days – and now the second Kiwi Derby between new boys Auckland FC and rivals Wellington Phoenix at Go Media Stadium has officially sold out.
The regular season A-League record crowd in New Zealand was set in the first derby with 26,252 fans through the turnstiles in Wellington. That mark could be beaten – Sky Sports commentator Jason Pine tweeted that Auckland have sold 26,253 tickets for this week’s grudge match, but it will require every ticket-holder to show up on game day.
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Saturday’s clash sees table-toppers Auckland hosting Giancarlo Italiano’s side where they will look to extend an incredible run of five straight wins and clean sheets to begin their A-League existence.
“I can speak on behalf of all the boys: we’re pretty keen to smash (Auckland) and get rid of that winning streak,” Phoenix defender Corban Piper said on Wednesday, adding more kindling to the fire with his side hoping to avenge the 2-0 defeat at Sky Stadium earlier this season.
Few A-League pundits predicted the Black Knights to be competitive right out of the gate but they have taken the competition by storm with resolute defence and clinical finishing under inaugural coach Steve Corica.
Roar editor Christy Doran made the trip to Seattle with VisitSeattle.org, diving into the city’s electric sports vibe, outdoor adventures, and renowned food scene. Click here for his latest adventure in the Emerald City.