League leaders Adelaide and second-place Auckland FC are set for a blockbuster Wednesday night clash at Coopers Stadium.
Both sides enter the match in form, with Carl Veart's men riding the momentum of a tantalising 3-2 comeback win over fierce rivals Melbourne Victory in front of a sold-out crowd.
Auckland returned to their scary best with a 3-0 dismantling of former leaders Melbourne City on the road, meaning just one point separates the two sides on the table.
Reds rising star Ethan Alagich, who scored the match-winner in the 71st minute against Victory, says his side are well aware of the challenge ahead of them.
"It's a big game. We've got a chance - we can go further up the table and separate ourselves," Alagich said on Monday.
"Every year we play, you're hoping for silverware and the chance to play in the grand final and potentially win.
"We couldn't get too caught up in the result (against Victory) and we had to quickly turn around and get ready for Auckland on Wednesday."
Auckland are eager to rebuild momentum after the first inconsistent patch of their existence. (Brett Phibbs/AAP PHOTOS)
Adelaide have the slight upper hand with a three-game winning streak ahead of welcoming Steve Corica's side to their Coopers Stadium fortress.
The Black Knights, after going unbeaten to lead the league before Christmas, are looking to put an end to their first inconsistent patch under Corica.
In their past five matches, they have won twice, lost twice and drawn once.
Another boisterous home crowd is expected for the mid-week fixture, making a smash-and-grab mission only harder for Auckland.
Alagich was one of nine South Australian products on the pitch against Victory and believes it's their home ties to the club that make his side formidable foes.
There are teammates such as goalkeeper Ethan Cox and attacker Yaya Dukuly that Alagich, son of club legend Richie, has played with and against since childhood.
"We've had a bond that's gone back for a long way, and it just makes it easier out on the pitch," Alagich said.
"For us, we know what it means to play for the club, having all of us supporting for so long.
"It makes a big difference for us when we've got the backing of the fans.
"Them showing up each and every week gives us confidence, because it means they believe in us."
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