Frank Farina says he is expecting sparks to fly in tomorrow's round one clash between Brisbane Roar and Gold Coast United at Suncorp Stadium. Following a long off-season and a build-up unlike any other in Hyundai A-League history, the Brisbane coach said both sets of players would be keen to live up to the hype in the historic match.
However, he stressed a good team performance was crucial if the Roar were to gain bragging rights over their new neighbours.
"We've got to get out there and play well if we're going to expect to get a result," Farina said.
"Where we can beat them is if we collectively play as a team and work hard together."
The match might just be the first step in a 27-round journey towards finals football this season, but Farina admitted United's talk of an unbeaten run to the title would make a win even more satisfying.
"It'd be the shortest undefeated run in history," he quipped. "I don't think there'll be any love lost on the field, that's for sure.
"I think our players are very keen and I'm sure their players will be keen to put on a good performance and, being a derby, I expect there to be a few fireworks."
With years of experience in Scottish Old Firm matches, Craig Moore said it was important the players kept their emotions in check during the game.
"There will be tackles flying in," the Roar captain said. "It's a derby and that is what's expected but as long as it's in a competitive and fair way I think everyone will be happy with that."
Brisbane Roar's match against Gold Coast United kicks off at 7.30pm at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday August 8.