MELBOURNE recruit Alex Pledger has stoked the fire ahead of his team’s blockbuster clash in Perth on Saturday, saying Wildcats fans had a tendency to get “a little feral”.

Pledger is more than familiar with the hostile RAC Arena confines, having been a key part of New Zealand’s side that developed a famous rivalry with Perth in a string of blockbuster playoff series this decade.

Now with United, Pledger told Melbourne radio station SEN his team would be ready to handle the tough road environment and raucous ‘Red Army’ fans on Saturday.

“They always play physical. The crowd gets there every game,” Pledger said.

“They get loud and they can get rowdy, and dare I say a little feral at times.

“It’s always a tough environment to play in but it’s a situation every team has to deal with at some point in the season.”

Perth is the NBL’s sole unbeaten team after two rounds, with a clash in Brisbane preceding their home clash with Melbourne.

Speaking on The Dribble podcast, Wildcats veteran Greg Hire said his side was bracing for a “potent” United outfit who would embrace the road challenge.

“(Chris) Goulding can go nuts, Casper (Ware) can go nuts,” Hire said.

“Guys with that ego, they love playing at the Arena, because if they hit one three, they’re turning to the crowd.

“It’s always a good battle with Melbourne.”

Greg Hire chats with Chris Robinson about the importance of this Saturday's game and why the team is swapping their signature red for pink.
PerthNow