Western United coach John Aloisi says Saturday's derby clash with Melbourne City cannot be treated like just another game as there is too much at stake.
Western United are priced at 5/4 to win the minor premiership, Melbourne City 5/4, and Saturday's clash could go a long way to deciding who collects the premiers plate.
Huge game
Melbourne City are top of the A-League ladder on goals difference but Western do have two games in hand and a win on Saturday will have them well and truly in the box seat.
City boss Patrick Kisnorbo has tried to play down some of the hype heading into the game, but the same cannot be said of Aloisi.
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"I'd be lying to say a derby game isn't important, because it is," Aloisi told reporters. "When people say it's just another game, it's not, it's a derby.
"I've played in plenty and I've coached in plenty. There's always that little bit of intensity in the game. And the supporters themselves get that bit more excited.
"It's about making sure the players don't get too excited and they're still in control of their emotions and the game."
Diamanti blow
Western have been hit by the news Alessandro Diamanti will be missing with a knee injury but there is good news as Josh Risdon and Connor Pain will return.
Kisnorbo has said influential striker Mathew Leckie could return from a groin injury. However Aloisi says he would be shocked to see him out there.
"I'd be very surprised if he plays because of the way that he pulled up the other week and he wasn't involved the other night," Aloisi added.
