It is little wonder that A-League players have a high appreciation of playing on the highly-rated surface at Melbourne’s AAMI Park, and PFA Executive Alex Wilkinson says this is in particular for matches there against Melbourne Victory.
“You play there in front of the biggest crowds, in one of the best football stadiums and on one of the best pitches, what players don’t enjoy that”?
The Central Coast Mariners captain adds that the fantastic atmosphere the Victory fans generate provides a lift for the away team as much as it does for the host, “it all makes for a great atmosphere that’s not so much intimidating but enjoyable”.
While Melbourne Victory still boasts the fans most recognised by the players for atmosphere, this is not to the exclusion of Melbourne Heart home matches which rate as the second best albeit closely followed by Adelaide United and Newcastle Jets.
Gold Coast’s dwindling numbers this season remain evident to visiting players, placing the club significantly behind the rest in terms of stadium atmosphere.
Atmosphere levels at Adelaide United have fallen from the early stages of the season as Adelaide United have struggled to find form at home despite a relatively high number of popular Friday night games.
Overall, there is no doubt that A-League fans of all 10 clubs, whether large or small in numbers, can be proud of the support they have shown their teams this year, and this is certainly not lost on the players, “I’m not sure of the exact figures but the way it feels to the players is that fan support is definitely up this year” said Alex.
To view the Stadium Ratings for Atmosphere please click here
Stadium ratings are provided by the away captains of visiting teams throughout the A-League season, and are based on pitch hardness, smoothness, pace and overall quality, with a separate rating given for stadium atmosphere.
The PFA will provide awards to the ground staff and official fan group of the teams with the best pitch and atmosphere respectively at the end of the season.
