The prospect of an intense derby battle with A-League Men leaders Melbourne City has sharpened Melbourne Victory's focus in a week littered with off-field distractions.
Saturday night's clash at AAMI Park falls against a backdrop of civil war in Australian football, after the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) scored a spectacular own goal through the unpopular decision to sell grand-final hosting rights to Sydney.
While vocal in his opposition to the move, Victory coach Tony Popovic has spent most of his energy this week preparing his side for on-field action, as they attempt to turn the tables on City following a round-three derby defeat.
City are reeling from their first loss of the season - 2-1 to Sydney FC last week - but boast the competition's most prolific attack, led by Socceroos trio Jamie Maclaren, Mathew Leckie and Marco Tilio.
"Dangerous is the word I would use," Popovic said.
"With the line-up that they have, they can score at any moment.
"I saw the game last week and Sydney played very well, but you always felt City were a chance and that's what the top sides can do.
"We want to show that we can stop their attacking threats tomorrow and show the quality that we have to cause them some problems at the other end."
Victory captain Josh Brillante is fit to return after missing last week's 1-0 away win over Macarthur FC, while ALM leading scorer Maclaren is eyeing a record.
The City striker has scored in seven consecutive appearances and will match the competition record set by former Perth Glory striker Andy Keogh if he finds the net against Victory.
But the derby threatens to be overshadowed by fan protests against the APL's grand-final decision, with Victory and City supporter groups united in a plan to walk out at the 20-minute mark.
Popovic has backed the fans' stance and Victory are still hopeful the move will be reversed.
"I don't think it's been difficult to maintain focus but of course it's happening and we can't avoid the topic," Popovic said.
"We've voiced our opinions, it's quite clear how we feel about it. But we're also preparing for a derby, an important game.
"We respect what our fans are doing but I'm sure at the end of the game they'll be delighted if we beat Melbourne City."
City interim coach Rado Vidosic is searching for his first win in charge after taking over from Patrick Kisnorbo, who joined top-flight French outfit Troyes last month.
Aiden O'Neill is back from suspension to bolster CIty's midfield.
"We are hoping to have one of our strongest line-ups ... everyone is ready," Vidosic said.
"We need to be ready, it's going to be a fiery game and we need to even be more enthusiastic than them."
Table-toppers City enter round eight with 16 points, two clear of second-placed Western Sydney Wanderers, with Victory (10 points) in fifth.
