Bridge, himself returning from a two-week hamstring related layoff, will lead the Sky Blues attack in the traditional local derby, while McFlynn is likely to be out for the next two A-League matches.

Compounding the loss of the Sky Blues inspirational leader is that striker Alex Brosque will miss his second straight match with an ankle injury but despite the mounting injury toll so early in the season, the A-League Champions are confident of taking all three points on Saturday night.

“We’ve made a slow start and we’re still waiting for the first victory this season. Of course the pressure is always there but I believe we will be able to turn it around,” coach Vitezslav Lavicka said.

“Mark is an important striker and we are far happier to have him back. We haven’t made a decision about whether we will start with two upfront so I’m delighted that we now have better options to play this way.

"Bridge and Brosque have been missing and that’s been difficult for us. We were without some of our best attacking players, but that’s football – sometimes injuries happen.”

Lavicka has outlined what the Sky Blues must do in order for them to snare their first win of what already is a super competitive the 2010/11 season.

“The Mariners are a strong team with good quality in defence and attack. We have discussed how we can beat them,” Lavicka said.

“We must play with more quality in attack, and be more aggressive and responsible in defence. Every player must give 100% to the cause. It’s time to go back to basics and work and work.

“We’ve made mistakes but this is the responsibility of the whole team. The expectation is high but the season has a long way to go.

"I firmly believe in the team and players and I expect Sydney FC fans will come and support us to success.”

Bridge said he was bursting at the seams to get back out there and feels that returning home to the SFS would give the Sky Blues an additional boost.

"Every game without Brosquey is going to be tough but Kofi did well last week,” Bridge said. "The mood hasn't changed. It's early days and there's still a long way to go.

"A couple of wins and we're right back up there. It will be great to play at home; it's always good to have the crowd right behind you.

"It's just about us being in a little bit of a slump and not playing well. Concentration played a big part against North Queensland, getting the equaliser and then conceding the goal just a minute later.

"Lack of patience in build-up play also, we need to keep possession instead of trying to counter so quickly with just one up front.

"The Mariners have a new coach and he'll have them playing some good football. We've had a video session so we know all their little tips and we'll be prepared."