New Melbourne Victory coach Jim Magilton understands the rivalry which his side has with Adelaide United. Magilton’s first game in charge of the Victory will be on Friday night at AAMI Park where they take on Adelaide United in the Muscat Kosmina Cup.

The Northern Irishman has been made aware of the fierce rivalry.

“It’s pretty pierce. I saw a couple good footages that I quite enjoyed the other night. I am sure John and Kevin will have a few words before the game. I understand that, I have been involved in one or two myself and I respect this is a big game for the fans, there are bragging rights up for grabs and I am well aware of that.

“It’s a local derby, it’s a big rivalry if you like, and it means a lot. We understand the intensity that we have to put in,” Magilton said on Thursday morning.

The 42-year old also considers the game to be a tough game against a rejuvenated Adelaide United side under John Kosmina.

“It’s going to be a tough game no doubt about it, they are four undefeated and we understand that they’ve got will capabilities in their game and we are going to withstand that.”

The game is the third game of the season against Adelaide for Melbourne Victory with the Muscat Kosmina Cup being handed over afterwards. Adelaide currently leads this season 1-0 in head to heads with the Melbournians. But the former Liverpool youngster will take any win even if a cup is up for grabs.

“I will be celebrating a win regardless. A win is a win and if a cup is involved I’ll be taking it home, yes.”

Magilton also hopes to have his captain Adrian Leijer back for the important encounter.

“He has been involved the last two training sessions, we’ve taken him out and we will asses him in the morning and see how he goes but he is the skipper, he is a leader and it will be a huge boost if we can get him on the park.”