Wed 31st Jan 2007

“The extra goal is definitely an advantage going up to Newcastle. The players know what they have to do and it’s a case of getting on with it, “said coach Terry Butcher in previewing Friday night’s game.

“It’s not about fitness at this time of the year. It’s about taking the game to the opposition.”

“What we lack in a full bench at this stage, we more than make up for in mental toughness. We have that in abundance."

We want to come away from Friday night undefeated and we’re prepared for that even if it means extra time and penalties.”

“It’s going to be a great occasion, this NSW derby. We created a record ground attendance last time we were up there and we expect to break that again on Friday night. And our players are big occasion players.”

And some parting words from captain Mark Rudan.

”Man for man on paper Newcastle are a good side, but we are better.”

“Championships are not won on paper though and games are not necessarily won on form. If that was the case we should have gotten a drubbing on Friday night but we didn’t. It’s all about doing your homework and having nerves of steel. We’ve done our homework and have proven our resolve a number of times this season.”

Player Update

Sydney expect to have NZ Kights midfielder Jonas Salley in the squad on Friday night after his clearance by the FFA. This is a short term signing to replace the injured Terry McFlynn.

Jeremy Brockie is back from representative duties in New Zealand.

Alvin Ceccoli was ruled again through injury for Friday night out after training on Wednesday.