It’s win or bust for Nicolaou and the Sutherland Sharks

Ahead of Sutherland Sharks’ relegation showdown with Mt Druitt Town Rangers this weekend, we spoke to star defender Yianni Nicolaou on the big match. 

The Sharks are currently in a tricky position on the ladder, sitting fourth-bottom, just two points off the bottom-two, and four points off last place with two games remaining.

While the three teams below them have been in decent form, Sutherland have struggled, picking up one crucial win in their last five matches – a 4-0 drubbing of Sydney FC.

“Honestly, that win was crucial,” Nicolaou said.

“The league is really tight towards the end, and every point matters at this stage.

“To get the result at home made it even better – it was amazing to it in front of our fans and give something back to them.

“They’ve been unbelievable all season, so to put in that kind of performance for them meant a lot.”

Nicolaou scored the first goal of that fixture and has been key for his side in recent weeks since joining mid-season from A-League Men’s side Macarthur FC.

“It just felt good to help the team and get the result we needed,” he said humbly when asked about his strong performances.

“The goal was a bonus, but at the end of the day, it’s all about the team and making sure we’re doing everything we can to win.

“We know how important every game is now, so I’m just focused on doing my part and keeping our momentum going.”

Looking forward to this weekend, Sutherland will be taking on Mt Druitt – who are second-bottom, in a true relegation six-pointer.

“It’s another grand final for us – it’s a must-win game,” said Nicolaou.

“The team is looking mentally and physically ready, and we all know exactly what we need: three points, nothing less.

“We’re going to do everything we can to get that result.

“We’ll also be drawing on the support of our amazing fans – they’ve been behind us all season, and we want to do this for them and the club.

“Everyone’s locked in and ready to go.”

Sutherland will be playing in front of what promises to be a plentiful home crowd, as both sides put it all on the line to ensure safety in the NPL Men’s NSW competition.

A win for the Sharks would see them move clear of the relegation fight, confirming their spot in the 2026 campaign, but a loss could see them move into second-bottom heading into the final round.

“A win this weekend would mean everything – not just for me, but for the club and everyone involved,” Nicolaou said.

“We’re fully aware of how important this game is, and we know what we need to do to stay in this league.

“It’s been a tough season at times, but this club is building in the right direction and deserves so much more.

“We owe it to the fans, the staff, and each other to give everything out there and get the result.”

Sutherland Sharks will take on Mt Druitt Town Rangers at 4pm on Saturday afternoon. Watch the game at Seymour Shaw, or stream it live and free on Football NSW’s YouTube Channel.