GREATER Shepparton and Melbourne City FC announced on Monday that they are joining in a three-year partnership that is set to bring a Melbourne City pre-season match to Shepparton Sports City every year until 2020.
The first match, Melbourne City’s final pre-season game, will take place against Western Sydney Wanderers on Friday, October 12 at Shepparton Sports City.
The match will be the fourth time the club has competed in Shepparton, following games against Wellington Phoenix and GNEFA All-Stars in 2011 and 2012, in addition to last year’s encounter, also against Western Sydney Wanderers where City ran out 1-0 winners.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Cr Kim O’Keeffe said, “I cannot wait to see the calibre of play at Shepparton Sports City on October 12. I urge residents to keep an eye out for when the tickets will go on sale.
“We are also very excited to have signed a three year deal with Melbourne City to come and play in Greater Shepparton in October and for another two years. Not only will they play a match but they will also undertake community activation and school clinics on their visits.
“Hosting events like this supports the Greater Shepparton Football Strategy and adds significantly to the region’s reputation of being the sporting capital of regional Australia. This is an event for the community and I encourage all football lovers to get along to the match in October.”
Melbourne City Football Club chief executive officer, Scott Munn said the match gave Melbourne City the opportunity to build its fan base outside the city limits.
“The Greater Shepparton region has an affinity with football and the support we’ve received in previous pre-season friendlies and our City in the Community programs here has been brilliant,” Munn said.
“We’ve got a strong fan base in the area and these games are an important part of our preparation for the season. It’s great to have the support of the Greater Shepparton City Council to be able to come out and play here for the next three years.”
Before Melbourne City visit Shepparton, they will entertain Newcastle Jets in the Westfield FFA Cup Round of 16 at AAMI Park, with the Club’s A-League season officially kicking off against Melbourne Victory on October 20.
For more information and to keep up to date for ticket sales, visit greatershepparton.com.au
