United look to close out season series against rivals

Melbourne United are looking to keep their momentum rolling ahead of their Boxing Day game against long-time rivals, the Sydney Kings.

The two sides have already played twice, with Sydney edging United in the first contest, before Melbourne destroyed the Kings in a historic drubbing in their second meeting.

Despite holding that massive victory over the Sydney-siders, United Head Coach Dean Vickerman told the media his side will not take the Kings lightly.

“We’re treating this like it’s game 3 of a (playoff) series on the road,” he said.

“We believe that we’re getting better and look forward to this challenge. They’ll be feeling something from us having beaten them heavily (in Melbourne) about how they want to bounce back.”

Touching on the rivalry, Vickerman said it’s always exciting when Melbourne and Sydney clash, and the Boxing Day game will be no different.

“We’ve had great games with them over the past few years. It’s Sydney vs Melbourne, it’s always going to be a great rivalry… It’s one we want to win.

“It’s always been there, ever since I was with the Melbourne Tigers. To win this series so early in the season means a lot.”

Forward Jack White will get his first taste of the rivalry in NBL22 on the weekend, having sat out the previous pair of games.

White, who played his first game back from a ruptured achilles last round against the New Zealand Breakers, finishing as a game-high +25, said he is excited to be a part of the feud.

“(The rivalry) is definitely intense.

“Both teams are super high-level teams… There's definitely been a bit of history over the last few years in terms of the battles that each team has had. I’m really just excited to be a part of it.”

A big part of securing the victory on Sunday afternoon will be Melbourne’s defense, which was historically good in Round 3.

White said continuing that momentum will be key for the defending champs.

“We’re really excited, obviously coming off a good round with two big wins.

“I really feel like we’re trending in the right direction, our defense has improved a lot… it’s what we want to establish our identity as we move forward; the best defensive team in the league.”

Melbourne United will face the Sydney Kings at Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday afternoon, 26 December at 3pm.

United fans can tune in live via 10Peach, 10Play, Kayo Freebies or Fox Sport 507.