The chance to play against a familiar foe in Melbourne Victory has Sydney FC defender Ben Garuccio all the more eager to make his Sky Blues debut on Saturday night at Leichhardt Oval.
After being a late pre-season arrival following the collapse of his former club Western United, Garuccio’s first appearance for Sydney has been delayed by fitness and injury concerns.
However, the 30-year-old left-back is available for selection this weekend, with the chance to take part in his first “Big Blue” adding to the potential occasion of his maiden appearance in Sky Blue colours.
“Melbourne Victory has always been a fiery game wherever I’ve played,” said Garuccio, whose previous clubs have also included Melbourne City and Adelaide United.
“Being at Melbourne City you’ve got the derby, and then I went to Adelaide United as well, and that’s the ‘Original Rivalry’, so Victory has been a team that I’ve never really liked too much in the league.
“They are always big games, and it’s no different here with Sydney FC with the ‘Big Blue’, so I’m looking forward to it.”
Garuccio was grateful to Sydney FC for giving him a career “lifeline” after the financially embattled Western United was put in “conditional hibernation” by the Australian Professional Leagues, which runs the A-League.
“I’ve signed here for two years, with the intention being that we have a really good two years, and win some silverware, and hopefully on a personal note, I can play a part, and potentially it could be for the rest of my career that I stay here with Sydney.
“I’m loving living here. It’s been a nice change in terms of the weather, and Sydney FC is such a big club, so I’m just loving being a part of it.
“The philosophy here of winning things, and truly being a big club, is something I’m enjoying, and I want to win silverware here.”
The Ufuk Talay-coached Sky Blues will chase a fourth successive win this weekend.
“Getting off to a good start is really important … and three wins in a row has been great,” Garuccio said.
“I’m just happy to hopefully be involved.”.
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