Story and photo courtesy of Northern NSW Football
West Wallsend Bluebells SFC (5th) vs. Wallsend FC (3rd)
Saturday 5th May, 1:00 pm, Johnston Park
Due to the Hyundai A-League Grand Final, the first Wallsend derby of the season was moved to an earlier time slot and although many will be looking forward to the Newcastle Jets game, later on, there is no denying that this game featuring two of the oldest rivals in Northern NSW football will be one of the most exciting clashes to happen this weekend.
West Wallsend is fresh off the bye but prior to that, won their three last consecutive matches, the first time ever since 2013, making confidence at the club at an all-time high. However, the Red Devils are a side in great form too and are still yet to lose a match this season.
Wallsend’s newfound offensive weapon Ty Goldsmith has been causing havoc for opposition defenders and has contributed greatly to his side’s impressive goal-scoring record.
Wallsend’s coach Ben Edwards suggested that although the Wallsend derby is a massive event for the club, that they weren’t preparing for it any differently than a normal game.
“Nothing changes. There’s a bit more in it because you never want to lose a derby, but in the same token, we don’t want to lose any match.”
“I think they’ll be like us, fresh off the bye and ready to go again. They’re in-form so I’m sure they’ll make it very difficult for us to get a result, especially with it being at Westy.”
Edwards also praised Goldsmith for his recent performances and expected him to once again be a handful for the West Wallsend defenders.
“With Ty it’s an unknown every week. He’s always dangerous and can just make goals out of nothing.”
“I’d imagine they’ll be wary of that, but I think he’ll be dangerous no matter what he does.”
West Wallsend coach Gary Rowe stated that although he is aware of the attacking prowess that Goldsmith brings, he isn’t going to be giving him any special treatment and instead he’ll be cautious of every Wallsend player on the field.
“We won’t be giving him any more attention than we would give anyone else,” said Rowe.
“You don’t score five goals in a half against anybody unless you’ve got multiple weapons, so we would be silly focusing any of our time on one player.”
“If we focus all our attention on Ty, it’ll just make it easier for their other boys, so no, we won’t be giving any special attention to him.”
“I expect it’s going to be really difficult.”