With the Hyundai A-League only two weeks away, Sydney FC are looking back at five of the most memorable opening round home games that the Sky Blues have been a part of.
It might have been that special goal, that youngsters’ debut or that amazing score line, there’s been a number of memorable games, and the first cab off the rank is the 2013/14 opener against the Newcastle Jets.
Over 20,000 fans packed Allianz Stadium to see the ninth iteration of the Hyundai A-League kick off and for one young Sky Blue it was a match he’ll never forget as Sydney FC cruised to a 2-0 victory.
Goals to Alessandro Del Piero and Joel Chianese set Sydney FC on their way to what was a comfortable victory on the opening day of the season and, after an impressive preseason, Christopher Naumoff, 18 at the time, made his Hyundai A-League debut in this match, coming on as a 90th minute substitute.
Naumoff went on to make a total of ten appearances in the league as he clinched the Y-League Player’s Player of the Year award, but he’ll never forget his debut match for his boyhood team.
“I was very happy,” Naumoff said.
“I had just arrived home from a tournament with the Young Socceroos, and to find out that I would be in the squad a day or two later was an amazing feeling.
“Sydney FC fans are the best in the league and to be a part of the squad on that opening day of the season and soak in the atmosphere was a memory that will stay with me for a long time.
“The main reason for the game being so memorable for me is that I got the opportunity to make my debut for a club that I had supported since day one of the A-League and also Sydney being my home city and birth place.”
Naumoff couldn’t believe the atmosphere inside Allianz Stadium and he feels that’s something that every Member and fan in attendance will cherish.
“I think the game would of been memorable for fans because of the atmosphere created within Allianz Stadium that night for the opening round of the A – League season,” he said.
“The fans would remember a great performance and a good win to kick off the season.
“I would have to say the stand out moment for me would have to of been stepping on the pitch when I was subbed on and also getting the win on my debut was a bonus.”
Sydney FC kick off the Hyundai A-League 2014/15 season at home to the newly rebranded Melbourne City on Saturday 11 October (kick of 7:30pm). Purchase tickets now to reserve your seat or become a Member today.
Christopher Naumoff is proudly sponsored by Player Partner Stockspot.
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