Derby rivalries heat up in Westfield FFA Cup

Tonight it's the Ipswich Derby, followed by three huge derbies in Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane as the Westfield FFA Cup ramps up local rivalries on a national scale.

In the next round of Westfield FFA Cup preliminary matches, a sensational string of matches involving local rivals in South Australia, Victoria and Queensland kicks off tonight (Wednesday) with Ipswich Knights and Western Pride FC at Eric Evans Oval tonight.

Pride are itching for revenge after being bundled out by Ipswich in last year’s inaugural Westfield FFA Cup.

Teenage Pride skipper Jesse Rigby is expecting a typically bruising derby affair, especially with the winner to move within just two games of the FFA Cup Round of 32.

“They’re going to come out physical,” 17-year-old Rigby said of the Knights.

“We went out to watch them against Moggill [in the Trophy Superstore Premier League] and they looked like a really good side but we won’t change how we play.

“It was just to have a look because I think a few boys haven’t really experienced these types of teams before.

“I think it will be a big turnout. I’m not sure what the Knights base is like but hopefully we can get a few down there.”

Following the Ipswich derby the focus turns to Adelaide on Anzac Day as two former NSL clubs go head-to-head at Adelaide City Park.

Damien Mori’s Zebras, semi-finalists last year, host West Adelaide in a South Australian classic.