Today, Friday 1 October, an outcome was reached by APL and Western United in reference to our home ground stadium roster for the 2021/22 A-Leagues Men season.
Greg O’Rourke, A-Leagues Commissioner said:
“Following last week’s partial fixture release, the two Western United games originally scheduled at Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium will now be played at AAMI Park.
“Matches that were originally intended to be scheduled at Lakeside for the remainder of the 2021/22 season will also now be played at AAMI Park.
“This decision has been made following a continued consultation process between the A-Leagues, State government, Western United FC and South Melbourne FC.
“With a small number of rectangular stadiums available in Melbourne that meet the standards for an A-Leagues broadcast, and the delayed start to the season as a result of COVID-restrictions further limiting the available options, this is the most suitable interim solution as Western United work towards delivering their home stadium in Melbourne’s West.”
Chris Pehlivanis, CEO Western United said:
“Following the A-Leagues’ due diligence process, we had agreed dates and entered into the contract process with the State Sports Centres Trust to play the games published in last week’s fixture announcements for the 2021-22 season.
“Having undertaken further consultation and collaboration with State Sports Centres Trust, South Melbourne FC, and the A-Leagues, the decision has been made to replace Lakeside Stadium with AAMI Park on our home stadium schedule for the 2021/22 season.”
