History will be created this Sunday 17 March at Westpac Stadium as the Sister Cities Shield will be contested between Wellington Phoenix representing Porirua City and Western Sydney Wanderers representing Blacktown City, New South Wales.
In 1984 a formal sister cities agreement was signed to promote cultural and commercial ties between the two cities.
Over the last 35 years, there have been a wide range of activities covering sporting, education, cultural and the arts which have enhanced the experiences of both communities.
Last year, the Football Federation (FFA), Wellington Phoenix and Western Sydney Wanderers agreed that an annual match between the sides would be contested with the inaugural fixture being held in March 2018 at Sydney Olympics Park.
The Mayor of Blacktown City Stephen Bali MP was presented with the Sister Cities Shield by his counter-part Mayor Mike Tana as the Western Sydney Wanderers kept all three points along with the shield. There will be more than three points on the line this Sunday as Porirua City looks for revenge as they come up against Blacktown City once again.
Stephen Bali believes this shield is a special representation of the flourishing partnership between the two cities.
“This second Sister Cities Shield game is a clear demonstration of the love and passion for sport that both our cities share.
“For 35 years Blacktown and Porirua have been sister city partners and I am extremely proud to be representing the City of Blacktown at this event.
“While Phoenix may have the advantage over the Wanderers in this year’s Hyundai A-League table, the pressure will be on them tonight to shore up a finals place.
“For the Wanderers it’s more about giving the fans something to shout about and maybe bringing a trophy home.”
The designation of a fixture within the Hyundai A-League competition is a fitting recognition of the strong partnership of both councils within an enduring and strong Sister Cities program.
Mayor of Porirua, Mike Tana is looking forward to the game being held here in Wellington for the first time.
“I can’t wait for this city partnership to come to Wellington as we celebrate the ongoing connection between the cities,”Tana said.
“I encourage all families and sport lovers to attend the game as we look to show Blacktown City how we celebrate football and our culture in New Zealand.”
It’s not too late to purchase your ticket for this weekend. We’re offering you a three-game package to attend the remainder of Wellington Phoenix home games at Westpac Stadium including this weekend’s fixture against Western Sydney Wanderers.
Simply click here to gets yours today.
