-
Join ccmfans.net
ccmfans.net is the Central Coast Mariners fan community, and was formed in 2004, so basically the beginning of time for the Mariners. Things have changed a lot over the years, but one thing has remained constant and that is our love of the Mariners. People come and go, some like to post a lot and others just like to read. It's up to you how you participate in the community!
If you want to get rid of this message, simply click on Join Now or head over to https://www.ccmfans.net/community/register/ to join the community! It only takes a few minutes, and joining will let you post your thoughts and opinions on all things Mariners, Football, and whatever else pops into your mind. If posting is not your thing, you can interact in other ways, including voting on polls, and unlock options only available to community members.
ccmfans.net is not only for Mariners fans either. Most of us are bonded by our support for the Mariners, but if you are a fan of another club (except the Scum, come on, we need some standards), feel free to join and get into some banter.
2018 FFA Cup
- Thread starter sydmariner
- Start date
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
FFA Cup Round of 32 Match Day breakdown: Week One
Mega night of football to open FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: Road to the 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32: NSW clubs
MATCH OF THE NIGHT – Avondale FC v Marconi Stallions
The featured match on Fox Sports pits the Victorian NPL high-flyers at home against the former NSL giants Marconi from the NSW NPL.
Avondale qualified for the Round of 32 for the very first time and will have a big home crowd behind them at ABD Stadium.
Both outfits are packed with talent and will fancy their chances of going deep into the competition.
While FFA Cup specialist Liam Boland is the name that jumps out at you in the Avondale lineup, there’s more to their side than the prolific frontman.
English striker Kaine Sheppard is enjoying a strong season in Victoria, while Elvis Kamsoba is one that will catch the eye.
But Marconi is a club enjoying a resurgence of their own, back in the top-tier in NSW a couple of seasons in the NPL2.
Their squad is packed with plenty of Hyundai A-League experience, including the likes of Mateo Poljak, Michael Beauchamp, Marko Jesic and Marc Warren.
KEEP YOUR EYE ON - Bonnyrigg White Eagles v Hakoah Sydney City East
There should be plenty of spice to this all-NSW NPL affair at the Bonnyrigg Sports Ground.
Something always happens when these two meet and it should be another cracking battle as they look to make the most of their chance on the national stage.
It will be the second meeting between the two sides in less than a month after a six-goal thriller in the NSW Waratah Cup semi-finals last week.
Hakoah came out on top in that one to reach the decider for a second straight year, doing all the damage in dominant first 30 minutes.
Gavin Rae’s troops were 3-0 up by that time, thanks to goals from the in-form Anthony Frangie, an own-goal by David Vrankovic and a strike fromKiwi international Andre De Jong.
Bonnyrigg hit back with two goals through Tynan Diaz and Vrankovic before Amaury Gauthier made the result safe after the break.
Can’t wait to see what these two dish up in Sydney’s west!
The other week one fixtures:
READ: The 4 big Round of 32 match-ups
READ: 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32 draw revealed
Ticketing information for each of the FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 matches will be released in due course by each home club. Please visit www.theffacup.com.au for further details.
Mega night of football to open FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: Road to the 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32: NSW clubs
MATCH OF THE NIGHT – Avondale FC v Marconi Stallions
The featured match on Fox Sports pits the Victorian NPL high-flyers at home against the former NSL giants Marconi from the NSW NPL.
Avondale qualified for the Round of 32 for the very first time and will have a big home crowd behind them at ABD Stadium.
Both outfits are packed with talent and will fancy their chances of going deep into the competition.
While FFA Cup specialist Liam Boland is the name that jumps out at you in the Avondale lineup, there’s more to their side than the prolific frontman.
English striker Kaine Sheppard is enjoying a strong season in Victoria, while Elvis Kamsoba is one that will catch the eye.
But Marconi is a club enjoying a resurgence of their own, back in the top-tier in NSW a couple of seasons in the NPL2.
Their squad is packed with plenty of Hyundai A-League experience, including the likes of Mateo Poljak, Michael Beauchamp, Marko Jesic and Marc Warren.
KEEP YOUR EYE ON - Bonnyrigg White Eagles v Hakoah Sydney City East
There should be plenty of spice to this all-NSW NPL affair at the Bonnyrigg Sports Ground.
Something always happens when these two meet and it should be another cracking battle as they look to make the most of their chance on the national stage.
It will be the second meeting between the two sides in less than a month after a six-goal thriller in the NSW Waratah Cup semi-finals last week.
Hakoah came out on top in that one to reach the decider for a second straight year, doing all the damage in dominant first 30 minutes.
Gavin Rae’s troops were 3-0 up by that time, thanks to goals from the in-form Anthony Frangie, an own-goal by David Vrankovic and a strike fromKiwi international Andre De Jong.
Bonnyrigg hit back with two goals through Tynan Diaz and Vrankovic before Amaury Gauthier made the result safe after the break.
Can’t wait to see what these two dish up in Sydney’s west!
The other week one fixtures:
- Port Melbourne Sharks v APIA Leichhardt – JL Murphhy Reserve
- Gwelup Croatia v Adelaide Comets – Dorrien Gardens
- Canberra FC v Broadmeadow Magic – Deakin Stadium
- Lions FC v Olympic FC – Lions Stadium
READ: The 4 big Round of 32 match-ups
READ: 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32 draw revealed
Ticketing information for each of the FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 matches will be released in due course by each home club. Please visit www.theffacup.com.au for further details.
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
FFA Cup Round of 32 Match Day breakdown: Week Three
Road to the 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32: NSW clubs
READ: The 4 big Round of 32 match-ups
We break down the key fixtures on the third night of Australia’s premier knockout competition.
MATCH OF THE NIGHT – Bentleigh Greens SC v Wellington Phoenix - Kingston Heath Soccer Complex, 7.30pm
The Mark Rudan era at Wellington Phoenix will commence at the home of Bentleigh Greens.
It's the third year in a row the reigning NPL Victoria champions have made it to the Round of 32 and Bentleigh certainly possess a storied history in the competition.
The side made it to the semi-finals in the inaugural year of the competition in 2014, eventually going down 3-0 to Perth Glory.
Currently second on the NPL Victoria ladder, Bentleigh enter the Round of 32 having dispatched St Kilda, Goulburn Valley Suns and Kingston City en route to the national draw.
They will no doubt prove tough opposition for the travelling Phoenix, who will be looking to spoil Rudan's opening night as new Wellington boss.
KEEP YOUR EYE ON – Perth Glory v Melbourne Victory - nib Stadium, 8.30pm (AEST)
Mark Rudan isn't the only Hyundai A-League coach making his opening stand in the dugout on the third match night.
Tony Popovic will be aiming to claim his first win as new Perth Glory boss when Melbourne Victory arrive in Western Australia.
The contest between the two top-tier outfits will offer fans a first glimpse of Popovic's Glory side, who will no doubt be fixed on impressing the former Western Sydney Wanderers' coach in his debut fixture.
Meanwhile, the clash at nib Stadium could reveal the first sightings of Kevin Muscat's plan to replace departing striker Besart Berisha.
The other week three fixtures:
READ: The 4 big Round of 32 match-ups
READ: 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32 draw revealed
Ticketing information for each of the FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 matches will be released in due course by each home club. Please visit www.theffacup.com.au for further details.
Road to the 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32: NSW clubs
READ: The 4 big Round of 32 match-ups
We break down the key fixtures on the third night of Australia’s premier knockout competition.
MATCH OF THE NIGHT – Bentleigh Greens SC v Wellington Phoenix - Kingston Heath Soccer Complex, 7.30pm
The Mark Rudan era at Wellington Phoenix will commence at the home of Bentleigh Greens.
It's the third year in a row the reigning NPL Victoria champions have made it to the Round of 32 and Bentleigh certainly possess a storied history in the competition.
The side made it to the semi-finals in the inaugural year of the competition in 2014, eventually going down 3-0 to Perth Glory.
Currently second on the NPL Victoria ladder, Bentleigh enter the Round of 32 having dispatched St Kilda, Goulburn Valley Suns and Kingston City en route to the national draw.
They will no doubt prove tough opposition for the travelling Phoenix, who will be looking to spoil Rudan's opening night as new Wellington boss.
KEEP YOUR EYE ON – Perth Glory v Melbourne Victory - nib Stadium, 8.30pm (AEST)
Mark Rudan isn't the only Hyundai A-League coach making his opening stand in the dugout on the third match night.
Tony Popovic will be aiming to claim his first win as new Perth Glory boss when Melbourne Victory arrive in Western Australia.
The contest between the two top-tier outfits will offer fans a first glimpse of Popovic's Glory side, who will no doubt be fixed on impressing the former Western Sydney Wanderers' coach in his debut fixture.
Meanwhile, the clash at nib Stadium could reveal the first sightings of Kevin Muscat's plan to replace departing striker Besart Berisha.
The other week three fixtures:
- Gold Coast Knights FC (QLD) v Newcastle Jets - Cbus Super Stadium, 7.30pm
- Hellenic AC (NT) v Western Sydney Wanderers FC - Darwin Stadium, 8.30pm
- Brisbane Roar FC v Melbourne City FC - Dolphin Stadium, 8.30pm
- Northcote City FC (VIC) v Devonport Strikers (TAS) - Jack Edwards Reserve, 7.30pm
READ: The 4 big Round of 32 match-ups
READ: 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32 draw revealed
Ticketing information for each of the FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 matches will be released in due course by each home club. Please visit www.theffacup.com.au for further details.
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
There's five Member Federation clubs from Victoria in the FFA Cup Round of 32, but only four had to go through qualifiers this year to make it this far.
Heidelberg United's incredible run to win last year's Australian NPL Finals Series meant they automatically qualified for this year's FFA Cup.
Interestingly, three of the Victorian NPL clubs that are in this year's tournament have reached the semi-finals of the FFA Cup in the past.
Will it be a Victorian club which goes oh so close to the final once again? Check out all five clubs’ road to the Round of 32.
Avondale FC
It’s a Round of 32 debut for Avondale in 2018, who has only gone as close as the sixth round of qualifying in the past.
They faced a mix of opponents of the road to the Round of 32, and conceded just one goal in qualifying.
Avondale was handed a relatively tricky round four clash with NPL Victoria 2 side Werribee City, but cruised through with a 3-0 win.
Things looked trickier with the draw for round five matching them up with fellow NPL Victoria side Bulleen Lions. It turned out to be their biggest win of the qualifying campaign – 5-0.
From there, things got much easier on paper for Avondale and the results seem to back that up. A 4-0 win against fourth-tier North Sunshine Eagles got Avondale through to the seventh round, and a 4-1 win against Richmond SC there got them through.
The Round of 32 is no easy task, with the ‘Avengers’ welcoming NSW heavyweights Marconi Stallions.They’ll be confident though – a good season in the league has them sitting comfortably in third place.
At home to the Stallions, can Avondale progress to the Round of 16 on their first attempt?
Bentleigh Greens
This year marks the fourth year Bentleigh Greens has qualified for the Round of 32, and the third year in a row. They’ve gone as far as the semi-finals before – can they do it again?
Entering the competition at the fourth round of qualifying, Bentleigh quickly dispatched Box Hill United 4-0 to progress.
Wins against St Kilda SC (3-2) and Goulburn Valley Suns (3-1) got the Greens through the fifth and sixth rounds, and set up a round seven clash with fellow NPL Victoria side Kingston City.
It was just as easy a win as the past three, despite their opponents. Four goals to zip got Bentleigh through to the Round of 32.
One of the premier NPL clubs in the country, Bentleigh has been handed a huge challenge in the next round. Hyundai A-League side Wellington Phoenix will travel across the ditch, and new boss Mark Rudan will hope he doesn’t slip up against NPL opposition.
Heidelberg United
Top of the league and flying high ahead of the Round of 32 draw, Heidelberg looked like a huge challenge for anyone who was unlucky to pull them out of that hat.
On top of the NPL Victoria and looking to make it back-to-back premierships, Heidelberg had the unique privilege of not having to play a single FFA Cup qualifier in 2018.
They cemented their spot in the competition last year, with a historic NPL Finals Series win putting them straight through to the Round of 32 in this year’s FFA Cup.
It was the first time that a Victorian side had won the Finals Series, and in fact the first time an NPL Victoria side had qualified for the final.
It was a final which the Bergers won 2-1 against Brisbane Strikers. Heidelberg beat WA side Bayswater City and NSW club APIA Leichhardt Tigers in their run to the decider.
They, like their four other Victorian representatives in the final stages of the Cup will play at home in the Round of 32. They’ll welcome Charlestown City Blues from NPL Northern NSW, who feature former Caltex Socceroo Ljubo Milicevic.
Heidelberg will welcome the 'vibes' in the Round of 32, but can they secure a win?
Northcote City FC
A maiden appearance in the Round of 32 for a side which is struggling to keep its head above water in the NPL Victoria, Northcote City will be out to surprise the competition.
They had a tricky path to qualification, which began with the slightest of 1-0 victories over Mazenod Victory in round four.
Round five posed a huge task – Green Gully, who is remembered best in the FFA Cup for their victory over Central Coast Mariners back in 2016. Northcote stepped up to the plate though, winning 2-0.
Their next match-up was NPL2 battlers Murray United, whom Northcote snuck past with a 1-0 win. Finally, round seven brought them face-to-face with NPL2 highfliers Altona Magic – but Northcote was better, winning 2-0 and progressing.
It’s an interesting proposition for Northcote in the Round of 32. They’ve drawn the only Tasmanian representative in Devonport Strikers, who are contenders for the NPL Tasmania premiership. A big challenge.
Port Melbourne Sharks
A third debutante from Victoria in this year’s Round of 32, Port Melbourne are ticking over nicely in the NPL Victoria without lighting the world on fire. Is the FFA Cup their platform to do just that?
Handed a tough opponent in round four, Pascoe Vale, the Sharks did enough in a 2-1 victory to progress.
Two NPL2 opponents were next, with Port Melbourne dispensing of Sunshine George Cross (3-0) in the fifth round and Whittlesea United (2-0) in the sixth.
This set up a round seven showdown with NPL2 side Moreland Zebras, and what a showdown it was. Seven goals in an extra-time thriller, with the Sharks triumphing 4-3 at the end of 120 minutes.
Drawn against APIA Leichhardt Tigers FC in the Round of 32, Port Melbourne welcomes a huge test to its doorstep. A victory over one of the toughest sides in NSW would be one for the ages.
Heidelberg United's incredible run to win last year's Australian NPL Finals Series meant they automatically qualified for this year's FFA Cup.
Interestingly, three of the Victorian NPL clubs that are in this year's tournament have reached the semi-finals of the FFA Cup in the past.
Will it be a Victorian club which goes oh so close to the final once again? Check out all five clubs’ road to the Round of 32.
Avondale FC
It’s a Round of 32 debut for Avondale in 2018, who has only gone as close as the sixth round of qualifying in the past.
They faced a mix of opponents of the road to the Round of 32, and conceded just one goal in qualifying.
Avondale was handed a relatively tricky round four clash with NPL Victoria 2 side Werribee City, but cruised through with a 3-0 win.
Things looked trickier with the draw for round five matching them up with fellow NPL Victoria side Bulleen Lions. It turned out to be their biggest win of the qualifying campaign – 5-0.
From there, things got much easier on paper for Avondale and the results seem to back that up. A 4-0 win against fourth-tier North Sunshine Eagles got Avondale through to the seventh round, and a 4-1 win against Richmond SC there got them through.
The Round of 32 is no easy task, with the ‘Avengers’ welcoming NSW heavyweights Marconi Stallions.They’ll be confident though – a good season in the league has them sitting comfortably in third place.
At home to the Stallions, can Avondale progress to the Round of 16 on their first attempt?
Bentleigh Greens
This year marks the fourth year Bentleigh Greens has qualified for the Round of 32, and the third year in a row. They’ve gone as far as the semi-finals before – can they do it again?
Entering the competition at the fourth round of qualifying, Bentleigh quickly dispatched Box Hill United 4-0 to progress.
Wins against St Kilda SC (3-2) and Goulburn Valley Suns (3-1) got the Greens through the fifth and sixth rounds, and set up a round seven clash with fellow NPL Victoria side Kingston City.
It was just as easy a win as the past three, despite their opponents. Four goals to zip got Bentleigh through to the Round of 32.
One of the premier NPL clubs in the country, Bentleigh has been handed a huge challenge in the next round. Hyundai A-League side Wellington Phoenix will travel across the ditch, and new boss Mark Rudan will hope he doesn’t slip up against NPL opposition.
Heidelberg United
Top of the league and flying high ahead of the Round of 32 draw, Heidelberg looked like a huge challenge for anyone who was unlucky to pull them out of that hat.
On top of the NPL Victoria and looking to make it back-to-back premierships, Heidelberg had the unique privilege of not having to play a single FFA Cup qualifier in 2018.
They cemented their spot in the competition last year, with a historic NPL Finals Series win putting them straight through to the Round of 32 in this year’s FFA Cup.
It was the first time that a Victorian side had won the Finals Series, and in fact the first time an NPL Victoria side had qualified for the final.
It was a final which the Bergers won 2-1 against Brisbane Strikers. Heidelberg beat WA side Bayswater City and NSW club APIA Leichhardt Tigers in their run to the decider.
They, like their four other Victorian representatives in the final stages of the Cup will play at home in the Round of 32. They’ll welcome Charlestown City Blues from NPL Northern NSW, who feature former Caltex Socceroo Ljubo Milicevic.
Heidelberg will welcome the 'vibes' in the Round of 32, but can they secure a win?
Northcote City FC
A maiden appearance in the Round of 32 for a side which is struggling to keep its head above water in the NPL Victoria, Northcote City will be out to surprise the competition.
They had a tricky path to qualification, which began with the slightest of 1-0 victories over Mazenod Victory in round four.
Round five posed a huge task – Green Gully, who is remembered best in the FFA Cup for their victory over Central Coast Mariners back in 2016. Northcote stepped up to the plate though, winning 2-0.
Their next match-up was NPL2 battlers Murray United, whom Northcote snuck past with a 1-0 win. Finally, round seven brought them face-to-face with NPL2 highfliers Altona Magic – but Northcote was better, winning 2-0 and progressing.
It’s an interesting proposition for Northcote in the Round of 32. They’ve drawn the only Tasmanian representative in Devonport Strikers, who are contenders for the NPL Tasmania premiership. A big challenge.
Port Melbourne Sharks
A third debutante from Victoria in this year’s Round of 32, Port Melbourne are ticking over nicely in the NPL Victoria without lighting the world on fire. Is the FFA Cup their platform to do just that?
Handed a tough opponent in round four, Pascoe Vale, the Sharks did enough in a 2-1 victory to progress.
Two NPL2 opponents were next, with Port Melbourne dispensing of Sunshine George Cross (3-0) in the fifth round and Whittlesea United (2-0) in the sixth.
This set up a round seven showdown with NPL2 side Moreland Zebras, and what a showdown it was. Seven goals in an extra-time thriller, with the Sharks triumphing 4-3 at the end of 120 minutes.
Drawn against APIA Leichhardt Tigers FC in the Round of 32, Port Melbourne welcomes a huge test to its doorstep. A victory over one of the toughest sides in NSW would be one for the ages.
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
Road to the FFA Cup Round of 32: Northern NSW and Qld clubs
Declan Payne
Jul 4, 2018
Two Northern NSW clubs and five Queensland clubs qualified for the FFA Cup Round of 32, with a Hyundai A-League opponent and a local derby in the offing.
One Queensland side has maintained its record of appearing in the Round of 32 every year since the competition’s inception, while there are debuts for one side from each region.
Of all the appearances in the FFA Cup Round of 32 by teams in Northern NSW and Queensland, there’s been just one side to get as far as the quarter-finals.
Is there one amongst the bunch which can match, or even better that result?
Broadmeadow Magic
Three appearances on the national stage and Broadmeadow hasn’t been able to find a way past the Round of 32 just yet. They’re flying high in the NPL Northern NSW and look good for the premiership, but will be hoping for a good cup run too.
The fourth and fifth rounds of the qualifying campaign were against lower league opposition but despite a 4-1 win over Wallsend in round four and a 2-0 win over Thornton in the fifth they were far from simple tasks.
Magic bossed it against Adamstown in the sixth round to go through with a 3-0 win under their belts, and set up a huge clash with perhaps their biggest rivals, Hamilton Olympic, in round seven.
Under lights at a neutral ground, Broadmeadow and Hamilton played out an enthralling match. A late goal clinched a 2-1 win for Magic, and put them into the Round of 32 for the fourth time.
On the road for the second year running, Broadmeadow will get on the bus and head south to the nation’s capital and face Canberra FC for a shot at the next round. It’s a side with former Hyundai A-League players like James Virgili and Mitch Oxborrow, and a handful for anyone they come up against.
Magic has a number of ex Hyundai A-League players and currently leads the NPL NNSW.
Magic is coached by former Newcastle Jet and Socceroo Ruben Zadkovich, who told the Newcastle Herald he was wary of Canberra.
“It’s hard to know how to feel about it because you don’t know much about them,” said Zadkovich.
“It’s a bit like the Moreton Bay game last year. You’re expected to be a good chance to go through but then you’ve got to go away and play them.
“It will be an old school slog, going down on the bus, in the cold to play Canberra, but it’s still a winnable game.”
Charlestown City Blues
Some of the strongest players in Northern NSW joined Charlestown this season, so too cult hero Ljubo Milicevic. The squad helped the Blues qualify for their first ever appearance in the FFA Cup Round of 32 – but they’ve been presented with quite a challenge.
Charlestown entered the competition in the fourth round and duly dispatched of a side some three tiers below them, Hamilton Azzurri, 10-0 to progress to the next round.
Facing NPL opposition in the form of Lake Macquarie in the next round, a 3-1 win sent them into the sixth round. Here Charlestown faced Boambee Bombers from the Northern Conference of Northern NSW and bulldozed their way through 6-0.
Round seven was a slog for the Blues, matched up with one of the Northern NSW heavyweights in Lambton Jaffas. It was scoreless after 120 minutes, and some penalty shoot-out heroics from Danny Ireland saw Charlestown through.
After starting the year on top of the NPL NNSW ladder by some margin, Charlestown has slipped down and are outside the top four. They’ve struggled with injury and now have one of the Victorian heavyweights, Heidelberg United, to face in the Cup. It’s a huge challenge – can they lift?
Ljubo Milicevic (left) will bring the vibes to Heidelberg. But will he (and Charlestown) take away a win?
It’s a tough assignment, but Charlestown coach David Tanchevski told the Newcastle Herald it was one that his side was looking forward to.
“When you get to this stage, it’s the luck of the draw and when you draw one of these teams, you’re against all odds,” said Tanchevski.
“It will be a good experience though to play at that level and that ground.”
Cairns FC
Formerly known as FNQ Heat, Cairns FC is the only member federation club which has qualified for every iteration of the Round of 32 since the FFA Cup’s inception. Incredibly though, the Queensland club has never progressed beyond the first hurdle.
It wasn’t a straightforward path to qualifying though, and after entering at the fifth round Cairns almost stumbled at the first hurdle. They squeezed through with a 4-3 win over Southside Comets.
They had a slightly easier time in their round six fixture against fellow NPL Queensland side North Queensland United, a 3-0 win setting up their round seven clash with Magpies Crusaders.
And what a clash it was. Down 3-0 at the half-time break, incredibly Cairns scored five unanswered goals in the second stanza to roar back to a 5-3 win and their fifth consecutive Round of 32 berth.
They’re sat a long way from the top four in the NPL Queensland, but they’ve got perhaps one of their best chances in the FFA Cup with second-tier Western Australia side Armadale their opponents in the first round of the competition proper.
The green of FNQ Heat has been replaced by the orange of Cairns FC. Can they progress?
Gold Coast Knights
It’s one of the underdog stories which the FFA Cup just loves to throw up. A side which plays in the (third tier) Gold Coast Premier League and entered qualifying two rounds earlier than their fellow Queensland entrants, a magnificent run saw the Knights qualify for the Round of 32 for the very first time.
Their first two matches in qualifying were tight victories but victory all the same, 1-0 over Surfers Paradise Apollo in round three and 1-0 over Broadbeach United in round four.
It’s thereafter things got tough. Drawn against a Gold Coast United side which sits two divisions above them, the Knights triumphed with a 3-2 win to go the furthest they’d ever been in the FFA Cup.
And the football gods didn’t smile upon them in the draw – NPL Queensland side SWQ Thunder stepped up and the Knights shocked the state AGAIN with a 2-1 win. Their round seven match was also against NPL opposition, but it didn’t worry the Knights who ran out 3-2 victors over Sunshine Coast Fire and booked a maiden Round of 32 spot.
Gold Coast Knights sit on top of the FGC Premier League but face probably their toughest opponent ever in Newcastle Jets in the Round of 32. It’s a match they’re not expected to go near winning – but after a marvellous qualifying run, anything’s possible.
Lions FC
One of the strongest sides in the NPL Queensland which is looking like making a run on the premiership this season, it was a cup run which had hearts in mouths at times but one which earned them a second ever Round of 32 berth.
Things got off to a fairly straightforward start for Lions, who beat Caboolture FC 5-1 in the fourth round of qualifying. This set up a round five clash with second-tier side Eastern Suburbs, which Lions snuck through with a 3-2 win.
Rochedale Rovers was next on the list for Lions, but it was far from straightforward for the NPL Queensland side. Rochedale, who sit a division below Lions pushed them all the way in a match which was scoreless after 120 minutes. Lions progressed after penalties.
Everyone was pointing to their round seven clash as the banana peel which could slip Lions up. Up against undefeated and free-scoring second-tier outfit Peninsula Power, Lions blasted their opponents away with a 6-0 win to waltz through to the Round of 32.
And what a match the Round of 32 has got in store for us. An all-Queensland clash with Olympic FC, who currently sit in first place but just one point above the third-place Lions in the NPL Queensland. Lions have only conceded nine goals in 17 league games this season – expect them to be solid.
Lions FC waltzed through in the final round of qualifying. How will they fare in the Round of 32?
Olympic FC
There hasn’t been an FFA Cup Round of 32 showing for Olympic since the competition’s first iteration back in 2014, but now the NPL Queensland leaders have the chance to make 2018 a year to remember.
It was a fairly easy task for Olympic in the fourth round as they cruised to a 7-1 win over St George Willawong, and then backed it up with a 2-1 win over Centenary Stormers in round five.
Moreton Bay United made it to the Round of 16 last season, but they weren’t able to repeat those heroics this year after Olympic managed to triumph in a tight 3-2 win in the sixth round.
The seventh and final round pitted Olympic against fellow NPL Queensland side Brisbane City, who pushed Olympic all the way. 2-2 after extra-time, Olympic won the penalty shoot-out and progressed to the Round of 32.
They’re top of the league, but the three sides behind trail by just a solitary point. That competitiveness will aid them in the FFA Cup, but it won’t be easy given they’ve been drawn against their Queensland opponents Lions FC.
Olympic FC lead the NPL QLD, but can they come out on top in the Cup?
Declan Payne
Jul 4, 2018
Two Northern NSW clubs and five Queensland clubs qualified for the FFA Cup Round of 32, with a Hyundai A-League opponent and a local derby in the offing.
One Queensland side has maintained its record of appearing in the Round of 32 every year since the competition’s inception, while there are debuts for one side from each region.
Of all the appearances in the FFA Cup Round of 32 by teams in Northern NSW and Queensland, there’s been just one side to get as far as the quarter-finals.
Is there one amongst the bunch which can match, or even better that result?
Broadmeadow Magic
Three appearances on the national stage and Broadmeadow hasn’t been able to find a way past the Round of 32 just yet. They’re flying high in the NPL Northern NSW and look good for the premiership, but will be hoping for a good cup run too.
The fourth and fifth rounds of the qualifying campaign were against lower league opposition but despite a 4-1 win over Wallsend in round four and a 2-0 win over Thornton in the fifth they were far from simple tasks.
Magic bossed it against Adamstown in the sixth round to go through with a 3-0 win under their belts, and set up a huge clash with perhaps their biggest rivals, Hamilton Olympic, in round seven.
Under lights at a neutral ground, Broadmeadow and Hamilton played out an enthralling match. A late goal clinched a 2-1 win for Magic, and put them into the Round of 32 for the fourth time.
On the road for the second year running, Broadmeadow will get on the bus and head south to the nation’s capital and face Canberra FC for a shot at the next round. It’s a side with former Hyundai A-League players like James Virgili and Mitch Oxborrow, and a handful for anyone they come up against.
Magic has a number of ex Hyundai A-League players and currently leads the NPL NNSW.
Magic is coached by former Newcastle Jet and Socceroo Ruben Zadkovich, who told the Newcastle Herald he was wary of Canberra.
“It’s hard to know how to feel about it because you don’t know much about them,” said Zadkovich.
“It’s a bit like the Moreton Bay game last year. You’re expected to be a good chance to go through but then you’ve got to go away and play them.
“It will be an old school slog, going down on the bus, in the cold to play Canberra, but it’s still a winnable game.”
Charlestown City Blues
Some of the strongest players in Northern NSW joined Charlestown this season, so too cult hero Ljubo Milicevic. The squad helped the Blues qualify for their first ever appearance in the FFA Cup Round of 32 – but they’ve been presented with quite a challenge.
Charlestown entered the competition in the fourth round and duly dispatched of a side some three tiers below them, Hamilton Azzurri, 10-0 to progress to the next round.
Facing NPL opposition in the form of Lake Macquarie in the next round, a 3-1 win sent them into the sixth round. Here Charlestown faced Boambee Bombers from the Northern Conference of Northern NSW and bulldozed their way through 6-0.
Round seven was a slog for the Blues, matched up with one of the Northern NSW heavyweights in Lambton Jaffas. It was scoreless after 120 minutes, and some penalty shoot-out heroics from Danny Ireland saw Charlestown through.
After starting the year on top of the NPL NNSW ladder by some margin, Charlestown has slipped down and are outside the top four. They’ve struggled with injury and now have one of the Victorian heavyweights, Heidelberg United, to face in the Cup. It’s a huge challenge – can they lift?
Ljubo Milicevic (left) will bring the vibes to Heidelberg. But will he (and Charlestown) take away a win?
It’s a tough assignment, but Charlestown coach David Tanchevski told the Newcastle Herald it was one that his side was looking forward to.
“When you get to this stage, it’s the luck of the draw and when you draw one of these teams, you’re against all odds,” said Tanchevski.
“It will be a good experience though to play at that level and that ground.”
Cairns FC
Formerly known as FNQ Heat, Cairns FC is the only member federation club which has qualified for every iteration of the Round of 32 since the FFA Cup’s inception. Incredibly though, the Queensland club has never progressed beyond the first hurdle.
It wasn’t a straightforward path to qualifying though, and after entering at the fifth round Cairns almost stumbled at the first hurdle. They squeezed through with a 4-3 win over Southside Comets.
They had a slightly easier time in their round six fixture against fellow NPL Queensland side North Queensland United, a 3-0 win setting up their round seven clash with Magpies Crusaders.
And what a clash it was. Down 3-0 at the half-time break, incredibly Cairns scored five unanswered goals in the second stanza to roar back to a 5-3 win and their fifth consecutive Round of 32 berth.
They’re sat a long way from the top four in the NPL Queensland, but they’ve got perhaps one of their best chances in the FFA Cup with second-tier Western Australia side Armadale their opponents in the first round of the competition proper.
The green of FNQ Heat has been replaced by the orange of Cairns FC. Can they progress?
Gold Coast Knights
It’s one of the underdog stories which the FFA Cup just loves to throw up. A side which plays in the (third tier) Gold Coast Premier League and entered qualifying two rounds earlier than their fellow Queensland entrants, a magnificent run saw the Knights qualify for the Round of 32 for the very first time.
Their first two matches in qualifying were tight victories but victory all the same, 1-0 over Surfers Paradise Apollo in round three and 1-0 over Broadbeach United in round four.
It’s thereafter things got tough. Drawn against a Gold Coast United side which sits two divisions above them, the Knights triumphed with a 3-2 win to go the furthest they’d ever been in the FFA Cup.
And the football gods didn’t smile upon them in the draw – NPL Queensland side SWQ Thunder stepped up and the Knights shocked the state AGAIN with a 2-1 win. Their round seven match was also against NPL opposition, but it didn’t worry the Knights who ran out 3-2 victors over Sunshine Coast Fire and booked a maiden Round of 32 spot.
Gold Coast Knights sit on top of the FGC Premier League but face probably their toughest opponent ever in Newcastle Jets in the Round of 32. It’s a match they’re not expected to go near winning – but after a marvellous qualifying run, anything’s possible.
Lions FC
One of the strongest sides in the NPL Queensland which is looking like making a run on the premiership this season, it was a cup run which had hearts in mouths at times but one which earned them a second ever Round of 32 berth.
Things got off to a fairly straightforward start for Lions, who beat Caboolture FC 5-1 in the fourth round of qualifying. This set up a round five clash with second-tier side Eastern Suburbs, which Lions snuck through with a 3-2 win.
Rochedale Rovers was next on the list for Lions, but it was far from straightforward for the NPL Queensland side. Rochedale, who sit a division below Lions pushed them all the way in a match which was scoreless after 120 minutes. Lions progressed after penalties.
Everyone was pointing to their round seven clash as the banana peel which could slip Lions up. Up against undefeated and free-scoring second-tier outfit Peninsula Power, Lions blasted their opponents away with a 6-0 win to waltz through to the Round of 32.
And what a match the Round of 32 has got in store for us. An all-Queensland clash with Olympic FC, who currently sit in first place but just one point above the third-place Lions in the NPL Queensland. Lions have only conceded nine goals in 17 league games this season – expect them to be solid.
Lions FC waltzed through in the final round of qualifying. How will they fare in the Round of 32?
Olympic FC
There hasn’t been an FFA Cup Round of 32 showing for Olympic since the competition’s first iteration back in 2014, but now the NPL Queensland leaders have the chance to make 2018 a year to remember.
It was a fairly easy task for Olympic in the fourth round as they cruised to a 7-1 win over St George Willawong, and then backed it up with a 2-1 win over Centenary Stormers in round five.
Moreton Bay United made it to the Round of 16 last season, but they weren’t able to repeat those heroics this year after Olympic managed to triumph in a tight 3-2 win in the sixth round.
The seventh and final round pitted Olympic against fellow NPL Queensland side Brisbane City, who pushed Olympic all the way. 2-2 after extra-time, Olympic won the penalty shoot-out and progressed to the Round of 32.
They’re top of the league, but the three sides behind trail by just a solitary point. That competitiveness will aid them in the FFA Cup, but it won’t be easy given they’ve been drawn against their Queensland opponents Lions FC.
Olympic FC lead the NPL QLD, but can they come out on top in the Cup?
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
Bonnyrigg's new coach ahead of FFA Cup Round of 32
Mega night of football to open FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: Road to the 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32: NSW clubs
Bonnyrigg White Eagles’ preparations for their FFA Cup clash against Hakoah later this month have been disrupted with news coach Brian ‘Bomber’ Brown has left the club.
Brown has been a long-term coach at the club, guiding them to championship success in 2013 and 2015, as well as Premiership wins in 2010, 2012 and 2014.
He also oversaw the club’s progression to the FFA Cup Round of 16 two years ago.
Bonnyrigg are in the FFA Cup Round of 32 again this year and host fellow NSW NPL club Hakoah Sydney City East in their opening match at home and Wednesday, July 25.
Current White Eagles first-team assistant Milan Susak has been appointed as interim coach for the club until the end of the 2018 Season.
As well as broadcasting one match Live and Exclusive in full on each match night, FOX SPORTS will also LIVE stream and provide updates and crosses to all other matches in the FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 (seewww.foxsports.com.au for all broadcast and streaming details).
Ticketing information for each of the FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 matches will be released in due course by each home club. Please visit www.theffacup.com.au for further details.
FFA Cup
Website: www.theffacup.com.au
Twitter: @FFACup
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ffacup
Mega night of football to open FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: Road to the 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32: NSW clubs
Bonnyrigg White Eagles’ preparations for their FFA Cup clash against Hakoah later this month have been disrupted with news coach Brian ‘Bomber’ Brown has left the club.
Brown has been a long-term coach at the club, guiding them to championship success in 2013 and 2015, as well as Premiership wins in 2010, 2012 and 2014.
He also oversaw the club’s progression to the FFA Cup Round of 16 two years ago.
Bonnyrigg are in the FFA Cup Round of 32 again this year and host fellow NSW NPL club Hakoah Sydney City East in their opening match at home and Wednesday, July 25.
Current White Eagles first-team assistant Milan Susak has been appointed as interim coach for the club until the end of the 2018 Season.
As well as broadcasting one match Live and Exclusive in full on each match night, FOX SPORTS will also LIVE stream and provide updates and crosses to all other matches in the FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 (seewww.foxsports.com.au for all broadcast and streaming details).
Ticketing information for each of the FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 matches will be released in due course by each home club. Please visit www.theffacup.com.au for further details.
FFA Cup
Website: www.theffacup.com.au
Twitter: @FFACup
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ffacup
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
Five hidden gems set to light up the FFA Cup Round of 32
2018 FFA Cup Round of 32 draw
READ: The 4 big match-ups of the FFA Cup Round of 32
Jez Lofthouse (Olympic FC – Queensland)
Few players in Queensland are turning heads quite like 18-year-old Jez Lofthouse.
The skilful and speedy winger has wasted no time in making a big impression in his first season with Olympic FC.
His tidy haul of 10 goals is the best of any player at the NPL Queensland ladder leaders with a series of top-corner stunners making waves on social media.
Lethal cutting inside from the left, Lofthouse looks set to win a few more admirers as Olympic attempt to improve on the Round of 16 appearance they achieved in 2014.
Helio Carvalho (Hellenic Athletic Club – Northern Territory)
He's no teenage sensation but that hasn't stopped Hellenic Athletic Club's Helio Carvalho from making this year's FFA Cup his own.
The 48-year-old has already defied the passage of time to completely dominate the Preliminary Rounds, netting seven times as the NorZone Premier League table-toppers breezed through their four qualifiers by a combined 20-0 scoreline.
The evergreen striker will need to maintain that form if Hellenic are to make history in Darwin by upsetting Western Sydney Wanderers in the Round of 32.
Carvalho's vast experience will come in handy for the hosts.
Kofi Danning (Canberra FC – ACT)
The FFA Cup is as much about redemption stories as it is new heroes and one man who could make the most of a return to the limelight is Kofi Danning.
Back home at boyhood club Canberra FC, the 27-year-old speedster has teamed up with key striker Thomas James to fine effect, the pair combining to lead the NPL Capital Football powerhouse into the FFA Cup Round of 32.
Danning, who has had spells with Sydney FC, Brisbane Roar and CS Vise of Belgium, has voiced his hope to break back into the Hyundai A-League.
A date with Broadmeadow Magic might just be the perfect launching pad to reigniting a career.
Image: Capital Football
Chris Jackson (Armadale SC – Western Australia)
In a testing trip to face Cairns FC, hotshot striker Chris Jackson could be the man to keep alive Armadale SC's ambitions of an unexpected run into the latter stages.
The English striker has been in top form this term with 14 goals in NPL WA, a strong return for a side that sits in mid-table.
But it's the four he scored in FFA Cup qualifying that have proved most precious for Armadale as they advanced to the Final Rounds for their first time in their history.
Jackson arrived in Perth with a nose for goal forged in English non-league football and he could now be about to truly announce himself to Australian audiences.
Anthony Frangie (Hakoah Sydney City East - New South Wales)
Still only 21, Frangie has elevated his game to a new level this season as evidenced by a superb tally of nine goals in 14 games in NPL New South Wales.
The attacking midfielder's valuable end product has made him a shining light for Hakoah Sydney City and could yet capture the attention of Hyundai A-League clubs.
If he fires Hakoah past Bonnyrigg White Eagles and into the Round of 16 for the first second time, there could be plenty of interest in a player with room still left for improvement.
2018 FFA Cup Round of 32 draw
READ: The 4 big match-ups of the FFA Cup Round of 32
Jez Lofthouse (Olympic FC – Queensland)
Few players in Queensland are turning heads quite like 18-year-old Jez Lofthouse.
The skilful and speedy winger has wasted no time in making a big impression in his first season with Olympic FC.
His tidy haul of 10 goals is the best of any player at the NPL Queensland ladder leaders with a series of top-corner stunners making waves on social media.
Lethal cutting inside from the left, Lofthouse looks set to win a few more admirers as Olympic attempt to improve on the Round of 16 appearance they achieved in 2014.
Helio Carvalho (Hellenic Athletic Club – Northern Territory)
He's no teenage sensation but that hasn't stopped Hellenic Athletic Club's Helio Carvalho from making this year's FFA Cup his own.
The 48-year-old has already defied the passage of time to completely dominate the Preliminary Rounds, netting seven times as the NorZone Premier League table-toppers breezed through their four qualifiers by a combined 20-0 scoreline.
The evergreen striker will need to maintain that form if Hellenic are to make history in Darwin by upsetting Western Sydney Wanderers in the Round of 32.
Carvalho's vast experience will come in handy for the hosts.
Kofi Danning (Canberra FC – ACT)
The FFA Cup is as much about redemption stories as it is new heroes and one man who could make the most of a return to the limelight is Kofi Danning.
Back home at boyhood club Canberra FC, the 27-year-old speedster has teamed up with key striker Thomas James to fine effect, the pair combining to lead the NPL Capital Football powerhouse into the FFA Cup Round of 32.
Danning, who has had spells with Sydney FC, Brisbane Roar and CS Vise of Belgium, has voiced his hope to break back into the Hyundai A-League.
A date with Broadmeadow Magic might just be the perfect launching pad to reigniting a career.
Image: Capital Football
Chris Jackson (Armadale SC – Western Australia)
In a testing trip to face Cairns FC, hotshot striker Chris Jackson could be the man to keep alive Armadale SC's ambitions of an unexpected run into the latter stages.
The English striker has been in top form this term with 14 goals in NPL WA, a strong return for a side that sits in mid-table.
But it's the four he scored in FFA Cup qualifying that have proved most precious for Armadale as they advanced to the Final Rounds for their first time in their history.
Jackson arrived in Perth with a nose for goal forged in English non-league football and he could now be about to truly announce himself to Australian audiences.
Anthony Frangie (Hakoah Sydney City East - New South Wales)
Still only 21, Frangie has elevated his game to a new level this season as evidenced by a superb tally of nine goals in 14 games in NPL New South Wales.
The attacking midfielder's valuable end product has made him a shining light for Hakoah Sydney City and could yet capture the attention of Hyundai A-League clubs.
If he fires Hakoah past Bonnyrigg White Eagles and into the Round of 16 for the first second time, there could be plenty of interest in a player with room still left for improvement.
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: The 4 big match-ups of the FFA Cup Round of 32
From the rich heritage of one of New South Wales powerhouse, to the giant-killing run of one second-tier Western Australia entrant, and a qualifying clean sheet in the Northern Territory.
In the first of five dives into narratives surrounding the entrants in the 2018 edition of the FFA Cup, we take a look at the rise, fall, and rise again of Marconi Stallions.
HERITAGE
Founded in the late 1950’s, Marconi Stallions became synonymous with football throughout Australia in the mid-to-late 20th century.
One of the big hitters in the old National Soccer League, the Stallions finished second in its inaugural season back in 1977 and won it in 1979.
Throughout the 1980s and 90s, Marconi won the competition three times and were runners-up twice.
Their four titles was the equal-best record in the competition during the NSL era; only South Melbourne and Sydney City (now Hakoah Sydney City East) managed the same.
Marconi took the step down into the NSW Premier League when the NSL was disbanded in 2004, and hasn’t managed to reach the same heights they once did.
READ: Mega night of football to open FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: Road to the 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32: NSW clubs
Promotion back into the NSW NPL 1 this season has lifted spirits around Marconi Stadium, with the Stallions jostling for a spot in the top five.
This is their second ever Round of 32 appearance in the FFA Cup. Three of their four NSL championships were play-off matches, and they won the NSL Cup once – not a bad record in do-or-die matches.
DEVELOPMENT
Marconi has been the breeding ground for some of the best Australian players and coaches of all-time.
Not just in the NSL days either, but some big Hyundai A-League names have also come through that production line.
Mark Schwarzer and Archie Thompson, two members of the 2006 FIFA World Cup squad, enjoyed decorated careers with the Australia national team after spending time with Marconi.
Schwarzer made his professional debut for the club at just 19-years-old, back in 1990.
They’ve helped develop some of the Hyundai A-League’s coaches, like Frank Farina, Gary van Egmond, and Steve Corica.
Former Socceroos under 20s coach Ufuk Talay spent time at Marconi during his playing career, so too Western Sydney Wanderers assistant Jean-Paul de Marigny.
Archie Thompson playing for Marconi in the NSL.
FUTURE
Marconi wasn’t among the four former NSL teams which expressed an interest in joining the Hyundai A-League, but make no mistake being back on the national stage is an ambition the proud club harbours.
A penalty shoot-out denied Marconi a shot at the Round of 16 the last time they qualified for the final 32, back in 2016.
If they can manage a better result over Avondale in this year’s edition, the country will sit up and take notice.
The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: The 4 big match-ups of the FFA Cup Round of 32
From the rich heritage of one of New South Wales powerhouse, to the giant-killing run of one second-tier Western Australia entrant, and a qualifying clean sheet in the Northern Territory.
In the first of five dives into narratives surrounding the entrants in the 2018 edition of the FFA Cup, we take a look at the rise, fall, and rise again of Marconi Stallions.
HERITAGE
Founded in the late 1950’s, Marconi Stallions became synonymous with football throughout Australia in the mid-to-late 20th century.
One of the big hitters in the old National Soccer League, the Stallions finished second in its inaugural season back in 1977 and won it in 1979.
Throughout the 1980s and 90s, Marconi won the competition three times and were runners-up twice.
Their four titles was the equal-best record in the competition during the NSL era; only South Melbourne and Sydney City (now Hakoah Sydney City East) managed the same.
Marconi took the step down into the NSW Premier League when the NSL was disbanded in 2004, and hasn’t managed to reach the same heights they once did.
READ: Mega night of football to open FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: Road to the 2018 FFA Cup Round of 32: NSW clubs
Promotion back into the NSW NPL 1 this season has lifted spirits around Marconi Stadium, with the Stallions jostling for a spot in the top five.
This is their second ever Round of 32 appearance in the FFA Cup. Three of their four NSL championships were play-off matches, and they won the NSL Cup once – not a bad record in do-or-die matches.
DEVELOPMENT
Marconi has been the breeding ground for some of the best Australian players and coaches of all-time.
Not just in the NSL days either, but some big Hyundai A-League names have also come through that production line.
Mark Schwarzer and Archie Thompson, two members of the 2006 FIFA World Cup squad, enjoyed decorated careers with the Australia national team after spending time with Marconi.
Schwarzer made his professional debut for the club at just 19-years-old, back in 1990.
They’ve helped develop some of the Hyundai A-League’s coaches, like Frank Farina, Gary van Egmond, and Steve Corica.
Former Socceroos under 20s coach Ufuk Talay spent time at Marconi during his playing career, so too Western Sydney Wanderers assistant Jean-Paul de Marigny.
Archie Thompson playing for Marconi in the NSL.
FUTURE
Marconi wasn’t among the four former NSL teams which expressed an interest in joining the Hyundai A-League, but make no mistake being back on the national stage is an ambition the proud club harbours.
A penalty shoot-out denied Marconi a shot at the Round of 16 the last time they qualified for the final 32, back in 2016.
If they can manage a better result over Avondale in this year’s edition, the country will sit up and take notice.
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Kings of the Cup from Cairns
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32
From the rich heritage of one of a New South Wales powerhouse to the giant-killing run of one second-tier Western Australia entrant, and a qualifying clean sheet in the Northern Territory.
In the second of five dives into narratives surrounding the entrants in the 2018 edition of the FFA Cup, we take a look at a Cairns FC which has maintained its record as the only member federation club to qualify for every edition of the FFA Cup.
THE EARLY YEARS
If you’re a bit of an FFA Cup boffin and are sat there wondering how a side you’ve not heard of in the Round of 32 has played in it the previous four years, then wonder no longer.
Far North Queensland, or FNQ FC Heat, was the name of the club up until late last year.
Their first entry into the FFA Cup Round of 32 came, of course, back in its inaugural year and was drawn against Sydney United 58.
Heat were routed 4-1 by a side which would go down to Hyundai A-League club Sydney FC in the next round.
READ: The 4 big match-ups of the FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: Mega night of football to open FFA Cup Round of 32
Just eight sides from the inaugural FFA Cup made it again in 2015, and this time around FNQ Heat’s Round of 32opponents were Oakleigh Cannons.
It was heartbreak at the first hurdle once again, going down on penalties.
MORE RECENT TIMES
Back at home in 2016, a 3-0 loss to Northern NSW side Edgeworth Eagles denied them a shot at progressing past the Round of 32 for the third year running.
It was more of the same last year, as they became one of only three member federation clubs to qualify for every single Round of 32.
This time around it was a demolition derby as their 2014 opponents Sydney United 58 this time played host. The NPL NSW side won 7-2 to send Heat packing.
At the end of the season last year, FNQ FC Heat announced a name change.
They became Cairns FC, a move which they hoped would align them more with the local community.
QUALIFYING AND 2018
With just forty-five minutes remaining in Cairns FC’s round seven FFA Cup qualifier, the final step before the Round of 32, the side was down 3-0 at the break to Magpies Crusaders.
A rousing comeback, perhaps inspired by a desire to play in a fifth consecutive Round of 32, grabbed Cairns FC an incredible 5-3 win.
The win will make them the only member federation club to play in all five iterations of the competition proper.
Despite four appearances so far on the national stage, Cairns hasn’t progressed past the Round of 32.
They’ll play host this year to Armadale SC from Western Australia – will 2018 finally be the year?
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32
From the rich heritage of one of a New South Wales powerhouse to the giant-killing run of one second-tier Western Australia entrant, and a qualifying clean sheet in the Northern Territory.
In the second of five dives into narratives surrounding the entrants in the 2018 edition of the FFA Cup, we take a look at a Cairns FC which has maintained its record as the only member federation club to qualify for every edition of the FFA Cup.
THE EARLY YEARS
If you’re a bit of an FFA Cup boffin and are sat there wondering how a side you’ve not heard of in the Round of 32 has played in it the previous four years, then wonder no longer.
Far North Queensland, or FNQ FC Heat, was the name of the club up until late last year.
Their first entry into the FFA Cup Round of 32 came, of course, back in its inaugural year and was drawn against Sydney United 58.
Heat were routed 4-1 by a side which would go down to Hyundai A-League club Sydney FC in the next round.
READ: The 4 big match-ups of the FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: Mega night of football to open FFA Cup Round of 32
Just eight sides from the inaugural FFA Cup made it again in 2015, and this time around FNQ Heat’s Round of 32opponents were Oakleigh Cannons.
It was heartbreak at the first hurdle once again, going down on penalties.
MORE RECENT TIMES
Back at home in 2016, a 3-0 loss to Northern NSW side Edgeworth Eagles denied them a shot at progressing past the Round of 32 for the third year running.
It was more of the same last year, as they became one of only three member federation clubs to qualify for every single Round of 32.
This time around it was a demolition derby as their 2014 opponents Sydney United 58 this time played host. The NPL NSW side won 7-2 to send Heat packing.
At the end of the season last year, FNQ FC Heat announced a name change.
They became Cairns FC, a move which they hoped would align them more with the local community.
QUALIFYING AND 2018
With just forty-five minutes remaining in Cairns FC’s round seven FFA Cup qualifier, the final step before the Round of 32, the side was down 3-0 at the break to Magpies Crusaders.
A rousing comeback, perhaps inspired by a desire to play in a fifth consecutive Round of 32, grabbed Cairns FC an incredible 5-3 win.
The win will make them the only member federation club to play in all five iterations of the competition proper.
Despite four appearances so far on the national stage, Cairns hasn’t progressed past the Round of 32.
They’ll play host this year to Armadale SC from Western Australia – will 2018 finally be the year?
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Gwelup's magical run in WA
Cairns back in the Round of 32 once again
READ: Marconi back on the national stage
GWELUP WHO?
A suburb of Perth and one of two entrants to the Round of 32 from Western Australia, Gwelup Croatia is one of only two sides at this stage of the competition which isn’t in its state’s top division.
If they’re a club which you’ve not heard of before, then you’re probably not alone. Gwelup only gained promotion to the second tier of Western Australia football at the end of last season.
It was the culmination of back-to-back promotion effort which has lifted Gwelup Croatia from the fourth to second division.
Given their good run in the league this season we may yet see them in the NPL WA next season.
RUN TO THE ROUND OF 32
As if it’s not already impressive enough that Gwelup Croatia, a team on the third level of the Australian football pyramid, is in the Round of 32 then you should check out the teams they managed to knock off to get there.
The final three rounds of qualifying handed them draws against three NPL WA opponents, which is a big ask for any side, let alone a Division One team.
Waver Gwelup did not, beating now-second place NPL WA side Cockburn City 3-1 in their fifth-round matchup.
A 2-1 win over Subiaco AFC followed, and a seventh-round 4-1 victory over Floreat Athena secured a famous passage into the Round of 32.
SMASHING EXPECTATIONS
Just getting this far in the competition will have been beyond the wildest dreams of most at Gwelup Croatia, and any thoughts of going further will be tempered by what is a tough Round of 32 match-up.
Before that though, is the WA State Cup Final which Gwelup will contest with fellow Round of 32 entrant Armadale SC.
A home tie in the Round of 32 to South Australia’s sole representative Adelaide Comets follows, slated for 8:30pm (AEST) kickoff on the opening day of the FFA Cup proper, July 25.
Any kind of result would be massive and would keep the fairy tale story alive. Gwelup has proved giant killer on three occasions in the FFA Cup so far this season – why not four?
Cairns back in the Round of 32 once again
READ: Marconi back on the national stage
GWELUP WHO?
A suburb of Perth and one of two entrants to the Round of 32 from Western Australia, Gwelup Croatia is one of only two sides at this stage of the competition which isn’t in its state’s top division.
If they’re a club which you’ve not heard of before, then you’re probably not alone. Gwelup only gained promotion to the second tier of Western Australia football at the end of last season.
It was the culmination of back-to-back promotion effort which has lifted Gwelup Croatia from the fourth to second division.
Given their good run in the league this season we may yet see them in the NPL WA next season.
RUN TO THE ROUND OF 32
As if it’s not already impressive enough that Gwelup Croatia, a team on the third level of the Australian football pyramid, is in the Round of 32 then you should check out the teams they managed to knock off to get there.
The final three rounds of qualifying handed them draws against three NPL WA opponents, which is a big ask for any side, let alone a Division One team.
Waver Gwelup did not, beating now-second place NPL WA side Cockburn City 3-1 in their fifth-round matchup.
A 2-1 win over Subiaco AFC followed, and a seventh-round 4-1 victory over Floreat Athena secured a famous passage into the Round of 32.
SMASHING EXPECTATIONS
Just getting this far in the competition will have been beyond the wildest dreams of most at Gwelup Croatia, and any thoughts of going further will be tempered by what is a tough Round of 32 match-up.
Before that though, is the WA State Cup Final which Gwelup will contest with fellow Round of 32 entrant Armadale SC.
A home tie in the Round of 32 to South Australia’s sole representative Adelaide Comets follows, slated for 8:30pm (AEST) kickoff on the opening day of the FFA Cup proper, July 25.
Any kind of result would be massive and would keep the fairy tale story alive. Gwelup has proved giant killer on three occasions in the FFA Cup so far this season – why not four?
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic's qualifying clean sheet
Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
READ: Cairns FC qualify once again
In the fourth of five dives into narratives surrounding the entrants in the 2018 edition of the FFA Cup, we take a look at this year’s sole Northern Territory representative Hellenic Athletic, their debut on the national stage, the qualifying clean sheets and the near half-century hat-trick.
MAIDEN BOW
Hellenic is just the third team to qualify for the Round of 32 from the Northern Territory, and they’ve been handed one of the biggest challenges among the member federation clubs.
They’ll host Hyundai A-League side Western Sydney Wanderers in their first showing on the national stage, not dissimilar to how fellow NT club Darwin Rovers hosted Sydney FC last year.
What Hellenic will be hoping for is a more respectable result.
Sydney trounced Darwin 8-0, in a result which wasn’t entirely unexpected given the David v Goliath nature of the match-up.
CLEAN SHEETS
One thing Hellenic does have in its favour is a fantastic record in their qualifying run which seen them score 20 goals and concede not a single one.
Of all 22 member federation clubs to qualify, Hellenic was the only one to do it without letting a goal past.
Games against divisional rivals Darwin Olympic (4-0), University Azzurri (2-0) and Palmerston Rovers (5-0) all looked on paper to have the potential to prove tricky.
Attacking prowess and defensive resolve ensured they weren’t so.
That defensive resolve in cup qualifying is a trait which has been replicated in their stunning league form this season.
Hellenic is seven points clear at the top of the Norzone Premier League ladder with a game in hand and has conceded just six goals in ten games.
(NEARLY) HALF-CENTURY HAT-TRICK
While big wins over divisional rivals were the talk heading into their round seven qualifying clash with Southern Conference club Verdi FC from Alice Springs, the result in that one ended up being the talk of the town.
A huge 9-0 result ensured they kept a fourth consecutive qualifying clean sheet, but it was all the more memorable for the hat-trick scored by Helio Carvalho.
The 48-year-old racked up seven goals in cup qualifying to add to his three in the league so far this season.
That type of experience will be invaluable, especially against the strength of their Hyundai A-League opposition.
Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
READ: Cairns FC qualify once again
In the fourth of five dives into narratives surrounding the entrants in the 2018 edition of the FFA Cup, we take a look at this year’s sole Northern Territory representative Hellenic Athletic, their debut on the national stage, the qualifying clean sheets and the near half-century hat-trick.
MAIDEN BOW
Hellenic is just the third team to qualify for the Round of 32 from the Northern Territory, and they’ve been handed one of the biggest challenges among the member federation clubs.
They’ll host Hyundai A-League side Western Sydney Wanderers in their first showing on the national stage, not dissimilar to how fellow NT club Darwin Rovers hosted Sydney FC last year.
What Hellenic will be hoping for is a more respectable result.
Sydney trounced Darwin 8-0, in a result which wasn’t entirely unexpected given the David v Goliath nature of the match-up.
CLEAN SHEETS
One thing Hellenic does have in its favour is a fantastic record in their qualifying run which seen them score 20 goals and concede not a single one.
Of all 22 member federation clubs to qualify, Hellenic was the only one to do it without letting a goal past.
Games against divisional rivals Darwin Olympic (4-0), University Azzurri (2-0) and Palmerston Rovers (5-0) all looked on paper to have the potential to prove tricky.
Attacking prowess and defensive resolve ensured they weren’t so.
That defensive resolve in cup qualifying is a trait which has been replicated in their stunning league form this season.
Hellenic is seven points clear at the top of the Norzone Premier League ladder with a game in hand and has conceded just six goals in ten games.
(NEARLY) HALF-CENTURY HAT-TRICK
While big wins over divisional rivals were the talk heading into their round seven qualifying clash with Southern Conference club Verdi FC from Alice Springs, the result in that one ended up being the talk of the town.
A huge 9-0 result ensured they kept a fourth consecutive qualifying clean sheet, but it was all the more memorable for the hat-trick scored by Helio Carvalho.
The 48-year-old racked up seven goals in cup qualifying to add to his three in the league so far this season.
That type of experience will be invaluable, especially against the strength of their Hyundai A-League opposition.
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Third time lucky for Bentleigh Greens?
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic keep a qualifying clean sheet
READ: Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
In the final of five dives into narratives surrounding the entrants in the 2018 edition of the FFA Cup, we take a look at whether Bentleigh Greens can finally get the job done over a Hyundai A-League opponent and why their history suggests it might be third time lucky.
ONE STEP FURTHER
Bentleigh Greens is one club which has a decorated history in the FFA Cup, and have qualified for all but one Round of 32.
Only four member federation clubs have appeared at the quarterfinals or later in the competition – the Greens are one of them.
In 2016, Bentleigh made it to the final eight of the competition.
They did it the hard way – a penalty shootout win over NPL Victoria opponents Hume City, and an extra-time win over Devonport City.
Bentleigh Greens brushed past Sydney Olympic in 2016.
They were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Melbourne Victory.
It didn’t quite match their endeavours in the inaugural FFA Cup though. Wins over NPL NSW sides Blacktown City and Sydney Olympic earned them passage to the quarter-finals, where Bentleigh beat Adelaide City in extra-time.
They missed out on a spot in the final after defeat to Perth Glory.
HYUNDAI A-LEAGUE HISTORY
For clubs around the country, the potential for a draw against Hyundai A-League opposition and the chance of knocking off a big club is what the FFA Cup is all about.
Bentleigh Greens has hosted top-tier opposition on two occasions – the first in 2014, where they played Perth Glory for a spot in the inaugural FFA Cup final.
They gave a good showing of themselves and nearly opened the scoring, but ultimately went down 3-0.
Tyson Holmes holds off Oliver Bozanic back in 2016.
They had another chance at knocking off a Hyundai A-League opponent in the 2016 quarter-finals, drawn against Melbourne Victory.
Just over 25km separates the two teams, and it took more than an hour for Victory to break Bentleigh down. Eventually, Melbourne emerged 2-0 winners.
THE CHALLENGE AHEAD
After two good showings against Hyundai A-League opposition in the past but without reward, Bentleigh Greens might just fancy their chances this time around.
They’ve been drawn against Wellington Phoenix in the Round of 32.
It’s a Wellington side which is more of an unknown than ever before.
They have a new coach in Mark Rudan who has made just one major signing in his tenure so far, former Newcastle United centre-back Steven Taylor.
In four years of FFA Cup, there have only been five occasions where Hyundai A-League clubs have been beaten by member federation clubs. All of those defeats came in the Round of 32 – can Bentleigh score a famous victory?
It’s the feature match on FOX Sports, kick-off is 7:30pm (AEST) on Tuesday August 7.
READ: Cairns FC qualify once again
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic keep a qualifying clean sheet
READ: Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
In the final of five dives into narratives surrounding the entrants in the 2018 edition of the FFA Cup, we take a look at whether Bentleigh Greens can finally get the job done over a Hyundai A-League opponent and why their history suggests it might be third time lucky.
ONE STEP FURTHER
Bentleigh Greens is one club which has a decorated history in the FFA Cup, and have qualified for all but one Round of 32.
Only four member federation clubs have appeared at the quarterfinals or later in the competition – the Greens are one of them.
In 2016, Bentleigh made it to the final eight of the competition.
They did it the hard way – a penalty shootout win over NPL Victoria opponents Hume City, and an extra-time win over Devonport City.
Bentleigh Greens brushed past Sydney Olympic in 2016.
They were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Melbourne Victory.
It didn’t quite match their endeavours in the inaugural FFA Cup though. Wins over NPL NSW sides Blacktown City and Sydney Olympic earned them passage to the quarter-finals, where Bentleigh beat Adelaide City in extra-time.
They missed out on a spot in the final after defeat to Perth Glory.
HYUNDAI A-LEAGUE HISTORY
For clubs around the country, the potential for a draw against Hyundai A-League opposition and the chance of knocking off a big club is what the FFA Cup is all about.
Bentleigh Greens has hosted top-tier opposition on two occasions – the first in 2014, where they played Perth Glory for a spot in the inaugural FFA Cup final.
They gave a good showing of themselves and nearly opened the scoring, but ultimately went down 3-0.
Tyson Holmes holds off Oliver Bozanic back in 2016.
They had another chance at knocking off a Hyundai A-League opponent in the 2016 quarter-finals, drawn against Melbourne Victory.
Just over 25km separates the two teams, and it took more than an hour for Victory to break Bentleigh down. Eventually, Melbourne emerged 2-0 winners.
THE CHALLENGE AHEAD
After two good showings against Hyundai A-League opposition in the past but without reward, Bentleigh Greens might just fancy their chances this time around.
They’ve been drawn against Wellington Phoenix in the Round of 32.
It’s a Wellington side which is more of an unknown than ever before.
They have a new coach in Mark Rudan who has made just one major signing in his tenure so far, former Newcastle United centre-back Steven Taylor.
In four years of FFA Cup, there have only been five occasions where Hyundai A-League clubs have been beaten by member federation clubs. All of those defeats came in the Round of 32 – can Bentleigh score a famous victory?
It’s the feature match on FOX Sports, kick-off is 7:30pm (AEST) on Tuesday August 7.
READ: Cairns FC qualify once again
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
APIA clinch Cup crown in NSW ahead of FFA Cup Round of 32
APIA Leichhardt Tigers will head into their FFA Cup Round of 32 clash against Port Melbourne Sharks next week in a confident mood after winning NSW’s Waratah Cup on Saturday.
Beaten by Hakoah Sydney City East in the 2017 final, there was to be no giant-killing this time around as the Tigers strolled to a 3-0 victory at Lambert Park.
READ: Cairns FC qualify once again
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
Both sides are again involved in the 2018 FFA Cup, which begins on Wednesday, July 25 with the first six matches of the Round of 32.
APIA travels to Melbourne to take on Victorian NPL outfit the Sharks, while Hakoah is involved in an all-NSW NPL affair with Bonnyrigg White Eagles on the same night.
Billy McColl’s APIA are league-leaders in NSW and showed that form on Saturday, hitting top gear from the opening minute.
Jordan Murray’s brace did the damage for the Tigers, with the NPL NSW Men’s golden boot favourite striking early in both halves.
When the Tigers’ frontman clinched his brace with a superb bullet header five minutes in the second half, the match as a contest was all over.
The APIA striker has also notched 18 goals in the NPL NSW Men’s this season.
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic keep a qualifying clean sheet
READ: Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
Hakoah coach Rae threw caution to the wind later in the second half but his side was unable to carve a way through a resolute Tigers backline, and were nullified by APIA at each attempt.
Their desperate attempts to get back into the match saw the Tigers add gloss to a dominant display late on, when Sean Symons combined with Franco Parisi and unleashed an unstoppable drive from outside the box.
APIA Leichhardt Tigers will head into their FFA Cup Round of 32 clash against Port Melbourne Sharks next week in a confident mood after winning NSW’s Waratah Cup on Saturday.
Beaten by Hakoah Sydney City East in the 2017 final, there was to be no giant-killing this time around as the Tigers strolled to a 3-0 victory at Lambert Park.
READ: Cairns FC qualify once again
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
Both sides are again involved in the 2018 FFA Cup, which begins on Wednesday, July 25 with the first six matches of the Round of 32.
APIA travels to Melbourne to take on Victorian NPL outfit the Sharks, while Hakoah is involved in an all-NSW NPL affair with Bonnyrigg White Eagles on the same night.
Billy McColl’s APIA are league-leaders in NSW and showed that form on Saturday, hitting top gear from the opening minute.
Jordan Murray’s brace did the damage for the Tigers, with the NPL NSW Men’s golden boot favourite striking early in both halves.
When the Tigers’ frontman clinched his brace with a superb bullet header five minutes in the second half, the match as a contest was all over.
The APIA striker has also notched 18 goals in the NPL NSW Men’s this season.
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic keep a qualifying clean sheet
READ: Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
Hakoah coach Rae threw caution to the wind later in the second half but his side was unable to carve a way through a resolute Tigers backline, and were nullified by APIA at each attempt.
Their desperate attempts to get back into the match saw the Tigers add gloss to a dominant display late on, when Sean Symons combined with Franco Parisi and unleashed an unstoppable drive from outside the box.
- Lead image courtesy of Football NSW
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
Armadale enjoy Cup success in WA
Cairns FC qualify once again
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
Jackson struck early in both halves to give the National Premier Leagues WA outfit their first State Cup success.
His first goal came after Michael Rizidis intercepted a misplaced pass in midfield and played a perfectly weighted through ball into Jackson’s path.
The striker barely had to break stride as he fired low across Gwelup keeper Connor Campbell and in off the far post.
Jackson’s second came barely a minute after Gwelup missed a great chance to equalise.
The striker initially did well to brush off his marker but his finish was on another level, curling the ball past the stranded Campbell from the edge of the box.
“We are so pleased to have been able to give them a day out like this and something to remember going forward,” coach John O’Reilly said.
“I’m so happy for everyone involved in this great club.
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic keep a qualifying clean sheet
READ: Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
“Chris scored two great goals for us but we were delighted with the defensive effort of the whole team today. I can’t single out one person, it was a fantastic team performance.”
Gwelup’s focus now turns to the FFA Cup Round of 32 clash at Dorrien Gardens, as they host the Adelaide Comets on Wednesday, July 25.
Armadale is in action the following week, travelling to Queensland to take on Cairns FC.
Cairns FC qualify once again
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
Jackson struck early in both halves to give the National Premier Leagues WA outfit their first State Cup success.
His first goal came after Michael Rizidis intercepted a misplaced pass in midfield and played a perfectly weighted through ball into Jackson’s path.
The striker barely had to break stride as he fired low across Gwelup keeper Connor Campbell and in off the far post.
Jackson’s second came barely a minute after Gwelup missed a great chance to equalise.
The striker initially did well to brush off his marker but his finish was on another level, curling the ball past the stranded Campbell from the edge of the box.
“We are so pleased to have been able to give them a day out like this and something to remember going forward,” coach John O’Reilly said.
“I’m so happy for everyone involved in this great club.
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic keep a qualifying clean sheet
READ: Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
“Chris scored two great goals for us but we were delighted with the defensive effort of the whole team today. I can’t single out one person, it was a fantastic team performance.”
Gwelup’s focus now turns to the FFA Cup Round of 32 clash at Dorrien Gardens, as they host the Adelaide Comets on Wednesday, July 25.
Armadale is in action the following week, travelling to Queensland to take on Cairns FC.
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
What to expect from Hyundai A-League clubs in FFA Cup Round of 32
Cairns FC qualify once again
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
Here’s a look at how the 10 Hyundai A-League clubs are shaping up ahead of the start of the Round of 32.
SYDNEY FC
The defending champions will take a new-look squad – and coach into their FFA Cup title defence.
New boss Steve Corica faces a tough challenge with last year’s Mark Viduka medallist and player of the final – Adrian Mierzejewski – golden boot winner Bobo and key defenders Jordy Buijs and Luke Wilkshire no longer with the club.
It should ensure some of the club’s younger talent gets a chance to impress for their clash against Rockdale City Suns on Wednesday, August 1.
ADELAIDE UNITED
The Reds were beaten finalists last year and will fancy their chances of another big Cup run in 2018.
While they have lost some key personnel in Johan Absalonsen, Daniel Adlung and Ersan Gulum, they have picked up some handy replacements.
Michael Jakobsen brings experience at the back, the speed and delivery of Craig Goodwin down the left is huge, while there’s big wraps on new Danish attacker Ken Ilso.
One thing you know about Marco Kurz’s side is they’ll also be supremely fit for that opening clash on Wednesday, August 1 against the Mariners at Marsden Sports Complex.
Nikola Mileusnic vs Heidelberg United
CENTRAL COAST MARINERS
We get our first look at Mike Mulvey’s Mariners' revolution in that clash in the City of Churches.
The 2014 Hyundai A-League Championship winning coach with Brisbane Roar is facing a big rebuild in Gosford, not only in terms of personnel but also confidence and club culture after a lean few seasons in terms of results.
There’s nothing like a ‘Cup run’ to start that process off on the right foot!
Mulvey has signed players with a point to prove, so expect the likes of Jack Clisby, Corey Gameiro, Michael McGlinchey and co. to impress against the Reds.
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic keep a qualifying clean sheet
READ: Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
NEWCASTLE JETS
The Jets haven’t had much success when it comes to the FFA Cup but they’ll fancy their chances of going through to the last 16 with a clash against Queensland side Gold Coast Knights on Tuesday, August 7.
After their superb Hyundai A-League campaign in 2017/18 – which was only soured by defeat in the grand final – Ernie Merrick will demand more of the same heading into the new season.
The key for Newcastle could be finding someone to score the goals, with striker Roy O’Donovan suspended, while Andrew Nabbout and ‘Scorpion King’ Riley McGree no longer with the club.
PERTH GLORY
There’s plenty of hype and excitement building in the west heading into the FFA Cup Round of 32.
With a new coach in Tony Popovic and some excellent signings – especially in defence with the likes of Jason Davidson, Matthew Spiranovic and Tomi Mrcela – there’s a feeling this could be Glory’s time to shine.
It will no doubt take time for the new additions to gel, but a high profile friendly against Chelsea will only help their preparations for the hugely-anticipated clash against Melbourne Victory on Tuesday, August 7.
MELBOURNE VICTORY
Onto the Victory and it’s been an off-season of change so far for Kevin Muscat’s squad.
Out has gone the Hyundai A-League’s greatest-ever scorer in Besart Berisha, while Rhys Williams, James Donachie and Stefan Nigro’s departures means they have lost some key players at the back.
Corey Brown and Storm Roux have come in and should fill the fullback roles for the Hyundai A-League champions but how will they fare against Perth in a replay of the 2015 final?
READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: The 4 big match-ups of the FFA Cup Round of 32
WELLINGTON PHOENIX
While new boss Mark Rudan hasn’t had a lot of time to stamp his authority on the Phoenix since his appointment, he’ll be keen to get off to a winning start.
Wellington travels to Victoria to take on NPL heavyweights and FFA Cup regulars Bentleigh Greens on Tuesday, August 7.
Former Newcastle United EPL defender Steven Taylor has been Rudan’s only major signing so far, with the ex-Sydney FC defender likely to rely on a batch of young local talent for the opening Cup match.
At least he can draw on some good experiences in the Cup before when in charge of NSW NPL side Sydney United.
WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS
The Wanderers are another club which heads into the FFA Cup with not only a host of changes to their roster – but also a new coach.
German great Markus Babbel has been going about his business quietly in Sydney’s west so far but he’ll get an interesting introduction to Australian football in their clash in the Top End against Hellenic AC.
Babbel knows all about success in Cup football, winning the FA Cup during his time at Liverpool, and there’s no better way to endear yourself to the fans than by helping the Wanderers have success in this competition.
While Spanish striker Oriol Riera will be charged with delivering the goals again, what kind of impact can new and exciting young recruits Bruce Kamau, Nick Fitzgerald and Jordan O’Doherty have?
Oriol Riera celebrates a goal from the FFA Cup in 2017
BRISBANE ROAR
Roar is another Hyundai A-League club that have struggled for success in this competition but have the benefit of a home tie against Melbourne City to look forward to on Tuesday, August 7.
John Aloisi is assembling a strong-looking squad in Brisbane, headlined by striker Adam Taggart from Perth Glory.
Throw in Stefan Mauk in midfield and import Tobias Mikkelsen and there’s a fresh and energetic look to Roar’s squad.
Frenchman Eric Bautheac also looks primed for a big season heading into his second campaign in the Hyundai A-League.
MELBOURNE CITY
Like their fierce local neighbours, it’s going to be a new-look City heading into the FFA Cup Round of 32.
But you can’t argue that Warren Joyce doesn’t have the quality in his squad to go deep into the competition.
Ex-Rangers attacker Michael O’Halloran will be keen to impress, while youngsters Riley McGree and Lachlan Wales are excitement machines.
The big question on City’s tilt could be what happens with Caltex Socceroos playmaker Daniel Arzani.
If the teenager hangs around with the club for another season, then City will not only be a major threat in the Hyundai A-League but also one of the favourites for the FFA Cup.
Cairns FC qualify once again
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage
Here’s a look at how the 10 Hyundai A-League clubs are shaping up ahead of the start of the Round of 32.
SYDNEY FC
The defending champions will take a new-look squad – and coach into their FFA Cup title defence.
New boss Steve Corica faces a tough challenge with last year’s Mark Viduka medallist and player of the final – Adrian Mierzejewski – golden boot winner Bobo and key defenders Jordy Buijs and Luke Wilkshire no longer with the club.
It should ensure some of the club’s younger talent gets a chance to impress for their clash against Rockdale City Suns on Wednesday, August 1.
ADELAIDE UNITED
The Reds were beaten finalists last year and will fancy their chances of another big Cup run in 2018.
While they have lost some key personnel in Johan Absalonsen, Daniel Adlung and Ersan Gulum, they have picked up some handy replacements.
Michael Jakobsen brings experience at the back, the speed and delivery of Craig Goodwin down the left is huge, while there’s big wraps on new Danish attacker Ken Ilso.
One thing you know about Marco Kurz’s side is they’ll also be supremely fit for that opening clash on Wednesday, August 1 against the Mariners at Marsden Sports Complex.
Nikola Mileusnic vs Heidelberg United
CENTRAL COAST MARINERS
We get our first look at Mike Mulvey’s Mariners' revolution in that clash in the City of Churches.
The 2014 Hyundai A-League Championship winning coach with Brisbane Roar is facing a big rebuild in Gosford, not only in terms of personnel but also confidence and club culture after a lean few seasons in terms of results.
There’s nothing like a ‘Cup run’ to start that process off on the right foot!
Mulvey has signed players with a point to prove, so expect the likes of Jack Clisby, Corey Gameiro, Michael McGlinchey and co. to impress against the Reds.
READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic keep a qualifying clean sheet
READ: Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32
NEWCASTLE JETS
The Jets haven’t had much success when it comes to the FFA Cup but they’ll fancy their chances of going through to the last 16 with a clash against Queensland side Gold Coast Knights on Tuesday, August 7.
After their superb Hyundai A-League campaign in 2017/18 – which was only soured by defeat in the grand final – Ernie Merrick will demand more of the same heading into the new season.
The key for Newcastle could be finding someone to score the goals, with striker Roy O’Donovan suspended, while Andrew Nabbout and ‘Scorpion King’ Riley McGree no longer with the club.
PERTH GLORY
There’s plenty of hype and excitement building in the west heading into the FFA Cup Round of 32.
With a new coach in Tony Popovic and some excellent signings – especially in defence with the likes of Jason Davidson, Matthew Spiranovic and Tomi Mrcela – there’s a feeling this could be Glory’s time to shine.
It will no doubt take time for the new additions to gel, but a high profile friendly against Chelsea will only help their preparations for the hugely-anticipated clash against Melbourne Victory on Tuesday, August 7.
MELBOURNE VICTORY
Onto the Victory and it’s been an off-season of change so far for Kevin Muscat’s squad.
Out has gone the Hyundai A-League’s greatest-ever scorer in Besart Berisha, while Rhys Williams, James Donachie and Stefan Nigro’s departures means they have lost some key players at the back.
Corey Brown and Storm Roux have come in and should fill the fullback roles for the Hyundai A-League champions but how will they fare against Perth in a replay of the 2015 final?
READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32
READ: The 4 big match-ups of the FFA Cup Round of 32
WELLINGTON PHOENIX
While new boss Mark Rudan hasn’t had a lot of time to stamp his authority on the Phoenix since his appointment, he’ll be keen to get off to a winning start.
Wellington travels to Victoria to take on NPL heavyweights and FFA Cup regulars Bentleigh Greens on Tuesday, August 7.
Former Newcastle United EPL defender Steven Taylor has been Rudan’s only major signing so far, with the ex-Sydney FC defender likely to rely on a batch of young local talent for the opening Cup match.
At least he can draw on some good experiences in the Cup before when in charge of NSW NPL side Sydney United.
WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS
The Wanderers are another club which heads into the FFA Cup with not only a host of changes to their roster – but also a new coach.
German great Markus Babbel has been going about his business quietly in Sydney’s west so far but he’ll get an interesting introduction to Australian football in their clash in the Top End against Hellenic AC.
Babbel knows all about success in Cup football, winning the FA Cup during his time at Liverpool, and there’s no better way to endear yourself to the fans than by helping the Wanderers have success in this competition.
While Spanish striker Oriol Riera will be charged with delivering the goals again, what kind of impact can new and exciting young recruits Bruce Kamau, Nick Fitzgerald and Jordan O’Doherty have?
Oriol Riera celebrates a goal from the FFA Cup in 2017
BRISBANE ROAR
Roar is another Hyundai A-League club that have struggled for success in this competition but have the benefit of a home tie against Melbourne City to look forward to on Tuesday, August 7.
John Aloisi is assembling a strong-looking squad in Brisbane, headlined by striker Adam Taggart from Perth Glory.
Throw in Stefan Mauk in midfield and import Tobias Mikkelsen and there’s a fresh and energetic look to Roar’s squad.
Frenchman Eric Bautheac also looks primed for a big season heading into his second campaign in the Hyundai A-League.
MELBOURNE CITY
Like their fierce local neighbours, it’s going to be a new-look City heading into the FFA Cup Round of 32.
But you can’t argue that Warren Joyce doesn’t have the quality in his squad to go deep into the competition.
Ex-Rangers attacker Michael O’Halloran will be keen to impress, while youngsters Riley McGree and Lachlan Wales are excitement machines.
The big question on City’s tilt could be what happens with Caltex Socceroos playmaker Daniel Arzani.
If the teenager hangs around with the club for another season, then City will not only be a major threat in the Hyundai A-League but also one of the favourites for the FFA Cup.
sydmariner
Well-Known Member
Online statistics
- Members online
- 22
- Guests online
- 561
- Total visitors
- 583
