Western United head coach Mark Rudan said Western United will be out to rectify the club's last performance in Ballarat which 'didn't go according to plan.'
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The newest A-League club was sent home with its tail between its legs after an emphatic loss to Wellington Phoenix in Ballarat in December.
But it will be out for redemption in its round 19 clash with Brisbane Roar at Mars Stadium on Sunday.
Rudan said a good showing was important as the club looks to build its fledging fan base.
"It's about growing our fan base and growing our football club as well, he said.
"It's key for us as a club to ensure we get that right support. The people of Ballarat are very loyal and they were great last time around and we are urging them to come out again and support their football club."
While the last appearance was far from the on-field result it was looking for, the green and black won over many of the city's soccer purists, drawing a crowd of 5084.
Sunday's clash could well top that number, given the added spice brewing between Rudan and Brisbane coach Robbie Fowler.
Fowler told Rudan to 'take a good look at himself' after Rudan criticised Fowler for not shaking hands after United's 2-0 win over the Roar in December.
The fued is another sub-plot in a pivotal game for both sides, with serious finals ramifications.
Roar, who leapfrogged United last week after topping Adelaide United, travel to Ballarat in hot form having only lost one their last seven.
United come fresh off a bye after a goalless draw against the struggling Newcastle Jets in round 17.
Rudan said Sunday would be a big game.
"They're all big games. We played them away from home and we beat them over there," he said.
"It's been a fantastic two weeks of training.
"The boys attitude and the way they've applied themselves has been great. And just the attitude around the club the past month has been great."
"We want to put that fantastic work ethic into practice."
WATCH: WESTERN UNITED v BRISBANE ROAR ROUND 10 HIGHLIGHTS
United's finals push was given added boost this week with the signing of Japanese defender Tomoki Imai.
The 29-year-old joined the club on a deal until the end of the 2019/20 Season.
He comes to the club after playing in the top-flight Japanese league for Matsumoto Yamaga, and could be in line play on Sunday.
Imai said he was happy to join the club.
"I would like to thank head coach Mark Rudan for giving me the chance to start my career in Australia. I'm here to work very hard and help the club," he said.
Western United's clash against Brisbane Roar will commence at 4pm on Sunday at Mars Stadium.
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