A blockbuster derby will kick-off the Newcastle Jets’ Hyundai A-League Championship defence. The Jets will take on local rivals, the Central Coast Mariners, on Friday 15th August 2008 at EnergyAustralia Stadium in the opening game of the season, with Football Federation Australia today officially releasing the draw for the 2008/2009 Hyundai A-League season.

The two clubs played out an enthralling Grand Final last season, with the Jets coming out 1-0 victors to bring the 2007/2008 Hyundai A-League Champions Trophy back to the Hunter region.

The Jets second home game is also set to be a big occasion, with the Jets returning to Newcastle in Round 4 to play fellow NSW rivals, Sydney FC, on Saturday 13th September 2008.

Newcastle Jets CEO, John Tsatsimas, today declared that he was happy with the draw, particularly given the intrastate derbies which will open the season at EnergyAustralia Stadium.

“Certainly they’re both big, blockbuster games, which will leave the Jets supporters salivating, I’m sure,” Mr. Tsatsimas said.

“We’re excited about the Grand Final rematch on the opening day of the season, and we look forward to seeing everyone out there supporting the Newcastle Jets as we embark on our Title defence.”

“Playing our rivals straight away doesn’t leave our supporters waiting long to attend the blockbuster matches, which certainly makes the draw an exciting one for us,” he concluded.