So it's done.
Sydney Rovers have finally been scrapped after months of speculation, extended timelines and hushed whispers in the corner...
I've been debating whether to write this blog or not for a week or so. I did state that I would never write another one until we had a definite answer to the Rovers' inclusion for next season.
Well we have a definite answer all right. Just the one we initially didn't want, but now in hindsight is probably for the best. The fact that we have heard nothing from the Rovers "board" for a year has been extremely frustrating and disappointing. After all the fanfare and the speedy release of name, colours and logo we all thought these guys were on the right track. In interviews they talked about the history of the region, tapping into it and getting everyone on board.
Then silence.
Well, now that they are finally gone, let's hope a proper bid can come forth. A bid that addresses the region properly. That actually engages with the "old clubs" and gets them on board for the journey. This team will not work unless it has the support of those such as Marconi and Sydney United. This team needs to tap into the rich history of the region, the clubs and players that have spawned from the area. Everyone knows Harry Kewell, Brett Emerton, Mark Schwarzer, Zeljko Kalac, Mark Bosnich came from the area. Use these faces and personalities to push the team forward to the public to get them on board. This team needs to decide where it will play (not ANZ) and stick to it, thus attempting to create a real fortress of a home ground.
The team needs to have West or Western in its name. Forget the Rovers reasoning for trying to appeal to the entire Sydney region. A derby will not work if there are no battle lines drawn. This team must represent the West of Sydney. I've always stated that this team has a potential to truly represent the area it hails from. There are so many players that come from this area, in the future 80% of the squad could be all locals, wanting to play for Western Sydney in the A-League and represent the team and their home in Asia.
Why not?
Most out here are truly proud of where they come from. This can be translated on the pitch and in the stands.
But for now, the dream has been put on hold. Let's hope the FFA get it right next time.
And now for my final words until the next bid appears...
I'll be back.
