The Sky Blues have opted to move next month’s match against Melbourne City from Brookvale Oval to Leichhardt Oval, due to unacceptable playing conditions.

The three-time A-League champions will face off against Melbourne City on Sunday, March 17, at 7:00 pm.

Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said it was an absolute coup for Leichhardt Oval to have scooped another game so quickly.

“I’m very pleased to see our vision of Leichhardt Oval being used more, not less, for top flight sport, is coming to life,” he added.

“The first A-League game was only days ago, so the Oval and surrounds must have really impressed for the team to be so quick to add another game.

“The ground is in top notch condition and our local businesses really stepped up to support the fans.

“There’s nothing like the atmosphere at a suburban ground, and the team clearly appreciated it.

“I’m really excited to see this game added to our list of fixtures at the iconic Leichhardt Oval.”

Leichhardt Oval was first used as a Rugby League football ground in 1934 and since then has become the most played-on Australian professional rugby league ground in active use.

It is said to be the spiritual home ground of NRL rugby team Balmain Tigers, now merged with Western Suburbs Magpies to become Wests Tigers.

Transition for the oval from rugby ground to co-existent soccer field comes as the State Government pushes ahead with plans to demolish Moore Park’s Sydney Football Stadium, making way for a contentious new $730 million dollar facility.

“To have a prestigious and internationally recognised club like Sydney FC based out of Leichhardt Oval is awesome,” Cr Byrne said.

“Leichhardt Oval is and always will be a spiritual home of Wests Tigers, but there’s no reason we can’t paint Leichhardt sky blue, too.”

Norton St in Leichhardt is currently undergoing a renewed period of reinvigoration, after Council announced legislative changes to increase nightlife.

As Italy’s national sport, this season of soccer is expected to add to the Little Italy atmosphere, with 12,000 people already turning up to see the game against the Central Coast Mariners, which finished with a 1-1 draw.

Local pubs and restaurants embraced the team and their fans, with special deals for match attendees.

The historic Inner West ground will also host the Sky Blues on March 1 when they take on Adelaide United.

“It’s a great day or night out for the whole family,” said Byrne.

“I invite all the fans to get over to Leichhardt and see what we have to offer here.”