FFA CEO David Gallop said the bumper turn-out was a “clear sign” that the A-League has arrived, following the conclusion of the AFL and NRL seasons.

“The crowd figure at tonight’s Sydney Derby at ANZ Stadium is a clear sign that the Hyundai A-League season is off and running and that there is a huge groundswell of interest in the league this season,” Gallop said.

“All those people and families out there involved in football at some level but yet to have a connection with the Hyundai A-League or any of the 10 clubs, tonight’s game is evidence of why you’ve gotta have a team.”

The figure of 61,880 eclipsed the previous A-League attendance record of 55,436 which was set at the A-League 2007 Grand Final at Etihad Stadium between Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United.

It also surpassed the 60,222 crowd which attended last month’s AFL qualifying final between Sydney and Greater Western Sydney at the same venue.

Another bumper crowd is expected next weekend for the Melbourne Derby at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night.