Tim Cahill applauded Melbourne City's intensity after their impressive 4-1 victory over Western Sydney Wanderers in the Westfield FFA Cup quarter-finals.
City surged to a 3-0 lead at half-time at AAMI Park, as the Wanderers struggled to play out from the back in the face of the hosts' forceful pressing.
Cahill claimed the performance laid "the foundation" for City's 2016-17 season, hinting that the rest of the A-League had better watch out for John van 't Schip's side.
Cahill scores as City storm into FFA Cup semis
"We're here to try and physically upset teams first and then afterwards, you'll see the football was really nice tonight," City's guest marquee told Fox Sports.
"Everyone can say it's early but laying foundations and implementing the football we want to [play] and also the intensity is important for all of us."
After Michael Jakobsen gave City the lead in stunning fashion, converting a bicycle kick in the second minute, Cahill and strike partner Bruno Fornaroli combined for the home side's next two goals.
The Socceroos striker cut back Bruce Kamau's cross in the 32nd minute for Fornaroli to score from close range.
In the 44th minute, Cahill's back-heel released the Uruguayan through on goal and, after Wanderers captain Nikolai Topor-Stanley pushed Fornaroli over in the box and was sent off, City's new star man converted from the spot.
Cahill played in behind Fornaroli in their first start together, with City utilising a 4-2-3-1 formation.
"It worked well," Cahill said.
"You know, the assist for Bruno, another assist for the penalty and then, in the end, just good combinations, good rotation, and it all starts with hard work.
"That's the thing this year with this club, we really need to push ourselves."
Fernando Brandan scored City's fourth goal after half-time, while Dimas notched a consolation for the visitors with 17 minutes left.
