2018 FFA Cup

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Heidelberg eyeing another FFA Cup giant-killing run
Local derbies light up FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32

As a result of their stunning win in the Australian National Premier League final last year, Heidelberg were the only Member Federation club to automatically get their spot in this year’s competition.

The 2018 FFA Cup will be the third time the former NSL outfit has featured in Australia’s biggest knockout competition.

While they didn’t qualify in 2014 and 2016, they certainly made an impact in both 2015 and last year, reaching the quarter-finals.

Here’s a look back at the club’s history in the FFA Cup.

2015

On the opening night of the 2015 FFA Cup, Heidelberg made the trip to Northern NSW for a tricky clash against Broadmeadow Magic.

But they had the win sewn up by half-time with Jack Petrie, Kaine Sheppard and Daniel Heffernan all finding the net to give them a 3-0 lead at the break.

READ: What to expect from Hyundai A-League clubs in Round of 32

READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage

Scott Petitt pulled one back for the home side with 16 minutes left but Heidelberg saw it out to move on to the last 16.

It was former NSL club Sydney United that came to Victoria for this clash, with Heidelberg scoring early and late to secure the 2-0 win.

Heffernan struck inside the first minute to give them the perfect start, before Kenny Athiu made the result safe three minutes from full-time.

Heidelberg celebrate Kenny Athiu's match-sealing goal against Sydney United.
For the quarter-final, more than 11,000 fans crammed into Olympic Village for the clash against Hyundai A-League heavyweights Melbourne City.

Heidelberg pulled off a huge coup before the match, signing 116-cap Greek international Kostas Katsouranos on a guest deal to play against City.

He wasn’t able to have a huge influence on proceedings though as Aaron Mooy scored a hat-trick as City cruised to a 5-0 win.

Uruguayan import Bruno Fornaroli scored either side of Mooy’s treble to grab a brace as City advanced to the last four and ended a memorable run for Heidelberg.

Ex-Greek international Kostas Katsouranis played against Melbourne City in 2015.
2017

George Katsakis’ men were drawn to play Hyundai A-League side Perth Glory – FFA Cup finalists in 2014 and ’15 – in the Round of 32 in a tough first-up assignment.

But at a heaving Olympic Village, Heidelberg ran all over an underdone Glory with Kenny Athiu’s goal early in the second-half enough for a 1-0 win.

It was nothing less than United deserved as they became the fourth Member Federation club to dump out the full-time professionals from the Hyundai A-League.

It was a trip to Sydney United up next in the Round of 16 in a contest which went all the way to a penalty shootout.

READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Hellenic keep a qualifying clean sheet

READ: Gwelup Croatia's magical run to the Round of 32

After scores were locked at 0-0 at full-time, Heidelberg looked to have got the job done when Sean Ellis buried Athiu’s flick-on to give them the lead in the second-half of extra-time.

Heidelberg players after Ellis's goal against United in extra-time.
But with just under 90 seconds remaining, supersub Adrian Vranic equalised with a low finish after an excellent Panny Nikas through ball.

After Nikas missed from the spot for the home side, Heidelberg keeper Christopher Theodoridis sealed the deal by saving Yianni Fragogiannis’s final attempt.

Heidelberg then had to come up against Adelaide United in the last eight and despite another spirited display, the Reds had a little bit too much class.

Winger Nikola Mileusnic was the difference between the two sides on the night, completing his hat-trick just after the hour-mark in a 3-0 win for the Hyundai A-League outfit.

How far can Heidelberg go in 2018? They face Northern NSW side Charlestown City Blues in the Round of 32at Olympic Village on Wednesday, August 1.

 

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Vote for your best goal and win 2018 FFA Cup Final tickets
FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage

READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32

How does it work?

Every goal filmed on camera from the Preliminary Rounds to the Semi-Final is eligible to win the FFA Cup 2018 Goal of the Year.

A panel will select the best 10 goals at the end of each round and fans will vote for their best goals that will then go into the final round of voting.

The final round of voting will consist of:

Preliminary Rounds - Best 3 goals
Round of 32 - Best 3 goals
Round of 16 - Best 2 goals
Quarter-finals - Best goal
Semi-finals - Best goal

How to participate

To enter the competition, all you need to do is cast your vote and answer in 25 words or less the following question.

What is the BEST part of the FFA Cup competition?

You can vote for your favourite goal and submit your response here.

What you can win

One lucky fan who votes on the winning goal AND has the best answer to the question wins two tickets the FFA Cup Grand Final plus flights and accommodation for two.

The player with the winning strike takes home the FFA Cup 2018 Goal of the Year trophy announced on Grand Final day.

Where to find the goals

You can find the top 10 goals of each round here.

Be sure to follow @FFACup on Twitter and like the official FFA Cup page on Facebook.

 

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Roots behind FFA Cup's rising Member Federation forces
Local derbies light up FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32

We take a look at some of the unique backgrounds of member federation clubs competing in the FFA Cup Round of 32.



AVONDALE FC

Formerly known as Keilor United, Avondale was founded by Italian migrants in 1984.

The club's growth has been mirrored by its rapid climb up the pyramid and development into one of Victoria's emerging forces.

Currently third in NPL Victoria, the recruitment of Argentine midfielder Jonatan Germano and former Melbourne City player could be just the injection of experience needed to get past Marconi Stallions, with whom they share Italian ties.

HELLENIC AC

As their name suggests, Hellenic Athletic Club have strong links with the Greek community of Darwin.

The club was formed in 1958 and has developed a strong rivalry with Darwin Olympic, whom they crushed 4-0 on the way to qualification for the main draw.

Interestingly, Hellenic count former Nepal youth international Sulav Maskey among their multicultural playing stocks.

They will be representing both the wider Northern Territory and their own proud roots when they meet Western Sydney Wanderers on August 7.

APIA LEICHHARDT TIGERS

Another club with Italian heritge, APIA Leichhardt were founded as the Associazione Poli-sportiva Italo Australiana in 1954.

Based in the inner-western Sydney suburb of Leichhardt, APIA grew to national prominence throughout the 1960's and were considered among the leading clubs in Australia.

Nicknamed the Marronazzuri in tribute to their colours, the side won the NSW Premiership four times between 1964-1975.

Currently the club are coached by Scotsman Billy McColl and are favourites to take out this seasons NPL NSW Premiership.

BONNYRIGG WHITE EAGLES

Bonnyrigg were originally founded by Serbian immigrants in 1968 as Avala Sports Club, named after the Avala mountain in Serbia.

The club changed their name to Bonnyrigg White Eagles after the 1992 season, with the badge consisting of a double-headed White Eagle with a soccer ball over a boomerang.

Current Caltex Socceroos Milos Degenek and Danny Vukovic are two of the biggest names to emerge from the White Eagles, while former Adelaide United striker Robbie Younis also plied his trade at the club.

The White Eagles have been one of the most successful NPL NSW clubs in recent times, claiming three Championships and five Premierships since 2009.

LIONS FC

Lions FC were founded by Dutch immigrants in 1957 and was known as Hollandia for the following two decades.

The club would take part in lower and first division competitions in Queensland before joining the National Soccer League as a foundation member in 1977 and winning the NSL Cup in 1982.

Since then the club has been one of Queensland football's shining lights, and in the 1983/84 season Northern Ireland and Manchester United legend George best played a four-match stint.

Currently, the club has former Brisbane Roar forward Jean Carlos Solorzano on their books.

 

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Where are the Member Federation clubs playing this weekend ahead of FFA Cup opening night?
Local derbies light up FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32

Below is a full list of where each side featuring in the FFA Cup on Wednesday night is in action this weekend.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT’S ROUND OF 32 MATCHES

• Port Melbourne Sharks v APIA Leichhardt Tigers – JL Murphy Reserve
• Lions FC v Olympic FC – Lions Stadium
• Canberra FC v Broadmeadow Magic – Deakin Stadium
• Avondale FC v Marconi Stallions – ABD Stadium
• Gwelup Croatia v Adelaide Comets – Dorrien Gardens
• Bonnyrigg White Eagles v Hakoah Sydney City East – Bonnyrigg Sports Club

PORT MELBOURNE SHARKS

The Sharks were handed a Friday night game in the Victorian NPL to give them more preparation time for their FFA Cup clash. In a tight clash at Jack Edwards Reserve, it took a Sam Smith penalty for them to come away with a 1-1 draw against the Oakleigh Cannons.

APIA LEICHHARDT TIGERS

League-leaders in the NSW NPL, the Tigers face a tricky trip to WIN Stadium for a clash with the Wollongong Wolves on Saturday night. It’s a vital game for APIA, currently two points clear of Sydney Olympic at the top of the comp in NSW.

LIONS FC

The on-form team in Queensland, Lions FC will go back to the top of the ladder if they can beat SWQ Thunder at Clive Berghofer Stadium on Saturday.

OLYMPIC FC

Have, at least, temporarily leapfrogged Lions FC to the top of the ladder in the Qld NPL after a comprehensive 3-0 win over Redlands United at Cleveland Showgrounds on Friday night. Costa Psaros, Alex Smith and STEVE WHYTE scored the goals.

CANBERRA FC

The league-leaders in the ACT – one point ahead of Canberra Olympic - Canberra FC head to Nijong Oval for a clash against Tigers FC on Saturday.

BROADMEADOW MAGIC

The Magic are also on the road as they head to CB Complex for a battle with Valentine FC. Currently third, the Magic are hoping to keep pace with league-leaders Edgeworth Eagles who are four points ahead of them at the summit in Northern NSW.

AVONDALE FC

Like Port Melbourne, Avondale were in action on Friday night in Victoria and came away with a 2-1 win at Pascoe Vale to consolidate third spot on the NPL ladder. An Elvis Kamsoba goal in the opening minute and another striker from Joey Katebian was enough to give Avondale all three points.

MARCONI STALLIONS

A huge game for the Stallions in the NSW NPL on Sunday. Currently in sixth spot and two points outside the top five, Marconi travel to Ilenden Sports Centre to take on fifth-placed Rockdale City. A win would see the Stallions jump into the finals spots.

READ: What to expect from Hyundai A-League clubs in Round of 32

READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage

GWELUP CROATIA

The team from the second tier in WA are at at Wishart Street on Saturday for their clash with Ashfield.

ADELAIDE COMETS

The Comets are involved in the match of the round in South Australia, on the road for the clash with Adelaide City. It’s a battle of third-placed City and the Comets in fourth, with a four-point gap between the two sides.

BONNYRIGG WHITE EAGLES

It’s a must-win clash for Bonnyrigg if they want to keep in touch with the top five in the NSW NPL. The White Eagles, currently seventh and four points outside the finals spots, travel to third-placed Sydney United on Saturday afternoon.

HAKOAH SYDNEY CITY EAST

Hakoah has a home game on Saturday night at Hensley Athletic Field, taking on Blacktown City. Hakoah is currently in 11th spot on the NSW NPL ladder.

 

[Rowdy]

OLYMPIC FC
Have, at least, temporarily leapfrogged Lions FC to the top of the ladder in the Qld NPL after a comprehensive 3-0 win over Redlands United at Cleveland Showgrounds on Friday night. Costa Psaros, Alex Smith and STEVE WHYTE scored the goals.

Thought Steve Whyte was over with Hutcho at Seattle Sounders in the MLS2 ??
- guess that didn't work out

 

[JoyfulPenguin]

Thought Steve Whyte was over with Hutcho at Seattle Sounders in the MLS2 ??
- guess that didn't work out

He was there for a while, but returned to Australia at the start of the NPL season.

 

[sydmariner]

‘This club did so much for me … we have to pay them back’
Local derbies light up FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32

The National Premier Leagues Victoria club have already gone further than ever before – reaching the Round of 32, where they will host four-time National Soccer League champions Marconi.

In the FFA Cup’s first broadcast match of the new tournament – live on Fox Sports from 7.30pm AEST on Wednesday 25 July – Avondale’s stars will be hoping to make lasting memories.

“For the club this is the first time we’ll be in a competition like this,” explained Germano to theffacup.com.au.

A former Melbourne City player, Germano racked up 56 appearances in the Hyundai A-League, but now finds himself pulling strings in the NPL.

“The FFA Cup is a big competition when you play in [the NPL] – it’s a chance to have an A-League team if we get through [the test of Marconi].

“For us, this is a final.

“We’re very comfortable, we’ve been doing ok in the league and we’re looking forward to Wednesday against Marconi … we know it won’t be easy.

“They also have good players [formerly] from the A-League, they’ve played in the last three years so they’re a good team to play.”

Avondale’s squad is made up of familiar names – Ramazan Tavsancioglu, Stefan Zinni, Joey Katebian to name a few – and they face up against Marconi who also boast a list of former Hyundai A-League players.

READ: What to expect from Hyundai A-League clubs in Round of 32

READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage

Michael Beauchamp, Mateo Poljak, Marko Jesic, Sean Rooney and Peter Triantis are among those who could line up for the Stallions, with Germano quashing the notion he or other ex-professionals will feel added responsibility on the night.

“I don’t know if it’s [an added] responsibility [on the ex-Hyundai A-League players],” Germano explained.

“We have to go out every game – in the Cup and in the league – and the former A-League players have to perform very well.

“We try to go in there on Wednesday and put everything together to win the game. But I don’t think it’s responsibility because we’re very comfortable.”

Jonatan Germano during his time with Melbourne City
The 30-year-old has been in impressive form this season for Avondale as the club sit third on the ladder in the Victorian top flight.

But to go through to the Round of 16, and set up a potential clash against a Hyundai A-League opponent, would mean so much to the club – a club which allowed the Argentine to earn his Australian citizenship after he was released by Melbourne City.

“For these people who are tied to the club, this game is massive,” said Germano.

“For a lot of them, they [might] never had the chance to play in the FFA Cup again – we will do everything for the club on Wednesday night.

“Everyone can see what the club is – this is a family club that gives everything for you, so we have to pay them back the way they’ve given to us. The people in the club have put in a lot of effort.”

He added: “After I played for Melbourne City, I wanted another chance to play in the A-League but no clubs came and talked to me.

“But this club in the NPL opened the door for me and they did a lot for me, for my family and I choose to stay in Melbourne.

“One, because they helped me with my visa – I’m an Australian citizen now – and I’m so happy to play and give everything for this team because it means a lot for me and I want to go through in the FFA Cup to help them in another way because they’ve done a lot for me.”

FFA Cup Round of 32 match night one fixtures:

• Port Melbourne Sharks v APIA Leichhardt Tigers – Wednesday 25 July at 7.30pm AEST
• Canberra FC v Broadmeadow Magic FC – Wednesday 25 July at 7.30pm AEST
• Avondale FC v Marconi Stallions FC – Wednesday 25 July at 7.30pm AEST
• Lions FC v Olympic FC – Wednesday 25 July at 7.30pm AEST
• Gwelup Croatia SC v Adelaide Comets – Wednesday 25 July at 8.30pm AEST
• Bonnyrigg White Eagles v Hakoah Sydney City East – Wednesday 25 July at 8.30pm AEST

 

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Marconi savouring shot back on FFA Cup’s national stage

It’s the first broadcast match of this year’s FFA Cup and will be shown live on Fox Sports from 7.30pm AEST on Wednesday 25 July.

For the Stallions, it’s a chance to make a mark in the national spotlight and they plan to make the most of it.

“I don’t want to die wondering, we’ll give it a good crack,” coach Peter Tsekenis told www.theffacup.com.au.

“We aren’t going to be sitting back, I can guarantee you that.

“If the other team is good enough to hold us off and get past us, then so be it.”

Tsekenis has overseen somewhat of a rebuild at Marconi, helping the club back into the NPL after a couple of years in the second tier in NSW.

They are currently sitting seventh in their first season back in the NSW top flight, five points outside the finals places with two games to go.


While the finals in NSW still remain a focus for the club heading towards the business end of the campaign, the Marconi boss is happy to be fighting for honours on two fronts.

“It’s [the FFA Cup] an opportunity for the member clubs to put themselves up against the best in the country,” Tsekenis said.

“The players look forward to these occasions. It’s good for the coaches, it’s good for the players, the clubs are excited about it.

“And it gives the fans an opportunity to see their club play on the national stage.”

The Stallions boast a squad with a good mix of youth and experience, including former Hyundai A-League players like Michael Beauchamp, Mateo Poljak, Marc Warren and Marko Jesic.

For Beauchamp, who has played for the Caltex Socceroos at a FIFA World Cup™ and won Premierships in the Hyundai A-League, he’s excited by the chance to play in a match which has such huge significance for his current club.

“It’s great for the boys to be on this stage. Across the board, the (NSW) NPL boys, the VPL [Victorian NPL] boys, it’s a chance for them to show what they can do,” the Marconi defender said.

“These chances of being on televised games are few and far between unless you are in the A-League. It’s a chance for these players to put themselves on the stage where one game can change their career.

“It gives them an opportunity to showcase themselves and hopefully a few boys can do that on the day.

Asked about the challenge of taking on Avondale, Beauchamp added: “To get to this stage of the FFA Cup they definitely have some talent there.

“I’ve had a quick look at them since we drew them, they are sitting third on the table, have scored a lot of goals and conceded not many. I’m sure it’s going to be a tough challenge.

“[But] on the day its one game, anything can happen. You have to prepare like any other game and hopefully we can come out on top.”

 

[JoyfulPenguin]

‘This club did so much for me … we have to pay them back’
Local derbies light up FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32

The National Premier Leagues Victoria club have already gone further than ever before – reaching the Round of 32, where they will host four-time National Soccer League champions Marconi.

In the FFA Cup’s first broadcast match of the new tournament – live on Fox Sports from 7.30pm AEST on Wednesday 25 July – Avondale’s stars will be hoping to make lasting memories.

“For the club this is the first time we’ll be in a competition like this,” explained Germano to theffacup.com.au.

A former Melbourne City player, Germano racked up 56 appearances in the Hyundai A-League, but now finds himself pulling strings in the NPL.

“The FFA Cup is a big competition when you play in [the NPL] – it’s a chance to have an A-League team if we get through [the test of Marconi].

“For us, this is a final.

“We’re very comfortable, we’ve been doing ok in the league and we’re looking forward to Wednesday against Marconi … we know it won’t be easy.

“They also have good players [formerly] from the A-League, they’ve played in the last three years so they’re a good team to play.”

Avondale’s squad is made up of familiar names – Ramazan Tavsancioglu, Stefan Zinni, Joey Katebian to name a few – and they face up against Marconi who also boast a list of former Hyundai A-League players.

READ: What to expect from Hyundai A-League clubs in Round of 32

READ: FFA Cup Round of 32 focus: Marconi back on the national stage

Michael Beauchamp, Mateo Poljak, Marko Jesic, Sean Rooney and Peter Triantis are among those who could line up for the Stallions, with Germano quashing the notion he or other ex-professionals will feel added responsibility on the night.

“I don’t know if it’s [an added] responsibility [on the ex-Hyundai A-League players],” Germano explained.

“We have to go out every game – in the Cup and in the league – and the former A-League players have to perform very well.

“We try to go in there on Wednesday and put everything together to win the game. But I don’t think it’s responsibility because we’re very comfortable.”

Jonatan Germano during his time with Melbourne City
The 30-year-old has been in impressive form this season for Avondale as the club sit third on the ladder in the Victorian top flight.

But to go through to the Round of 16, and set up a potential clash against a Hyundai A-League opponent, would mean so much to the club – a club which allowed the Argentine to earn his Australian citizenship after he was released by Melbourne City.

“For these people who are tied to the club, this game is massive,” said Germano.

“For a lot of them, they [might] never had the chance to play in the FFA Cup again – we will do everything for the club on Wednesday night.

“Everyone can see what the club is – this is a family club that gives everything for you, so we have to pay them back the way they’ve given to us. The people in the club have put in a lot of effort.”

He added: “After I played for Melbourne City, I wanted another chance to play in the A-League but no clubs came and talked to me.

“But this club in the NPL opened the door for me and they did a lot for me, for my family and I choose to stay in Melbourne.

“One, because they helped me with my visa – I’m an Australian citizen now – and I’m so happy to play and give everything for this team because it means a lot for me and I want to go through in the FFA Cup to help them in another way because they’ve done a lot for me.”

FFA Cup Round of 32 match night one fixtures:

• Port Melbourne Sharks v APIA Leichhardt Tigers – Wednesday 25 July at 7.30pm AEST
• Canberra FC v Broadmeadow Magic FC – Wednesday 25 July at 7.30pm AEST
• Avondale FC v Marconi Stallions FC – Wednesday 25 July at 7.30pm AEST
• Lions FC v Olympic FC – Wednesday 25 July at 7.30pm AEST
• Gwelup Croatia SC v Adelaide Comets – Wednesday 25 July at 8.30pm AEST
• Bonnyrigg White Eagles v Hakoah Sydney City East – Wednesday 25 July at 8.30pm AEST

Love Germano, he was terrific for Heart but way, way too injury prone. His celebration after we came back from 0-2 and a man sent off to win 3-2 against Sydney right in front me will always be a special moment.

 

[sydmariner]

FFA Cup Final Host City to be determined by live draw
FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

PRIZE: Vote for your best goal and win tickets to 2018 FFA Cup Final

After the FFA Cup Semi-Finals, FFA will conduct a live draw on FOX SPORTS to determine the FFA Cup Final Host City based on which two teams have qualified.

The live draw will be conducted if there is at least one (1) suitable venue in each of the cities in which the two (2) competing Clubs are based.

After determining the Host City, FFA will then select the most appropriate venue, subject to a suitability criteria.

FFA’s Head of Leagues, Greg O’Rourke, said that the decision to move to a live draw to determine the Host City for the FFA Cup Final ought to add to the excitement of the competition.

“FFA Cup fans have been calling for a process to determine the Host City for the FFA Cup Final, so we are delighted that this year we have been able to work with Hyundai A-League Clubs and Member Federations to achieve this positive outcome,” said O’Rourke.

“There will be a great sense of anticipation around the nation, and especially for everyone involved with the two competing clubs, when the draw is held live on FOX SPORTS,” he said.

In addition, as witnessed at the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ in Russia, teams competing in the FFA Cup 2018 Final Rounds can also use a fourth (4th) substitute if a match goes into extra time.

READ: 'The club did so much for me...we have to pay them back'.

READ: Marconi savouring shot on Cup's national stage

The final update to the FFA Cup Regulations is that – in accordance with the recent trial in the Hyundai A-League – Match Officials will be able to issue Team Officials with yellow and red cards during FFA Cup matches.

A mega night of action will kick off the FFA Cup 2018 Final Rounds on Wednesday, 25 July 2018. Six (6) matches involving clubs from seven (7) Member Federations will be staged across the nation.

 

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FFA Cup Preview: Opening night of the Round of 32
Marconi relishing shot back on Cup's national stage

READ: Local derbies light up FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

Here’s your complete preview to all six games in what's shaping as another night of Cup drama from Melbourne to Perth, Sydney, Queensland and the nation's capital.

AVONDALE FC v MARCONI STALLIONS

What a cracking match-up we have in store in the broadcast match – live on Fox Sports from 7.30pm AEST– of the opening night.

Surprise packets Avondale, currently third in the Victorian NPL, have surged into the Round of 32 scoring a stack of goals.

Striker Liam Boland is a name well-known in this competition but he’s part of an impressive squad that has the likes of Stefan Zinni, Joey Katebian, Jonatan Germano and Ramazan Tavsancioglu.

They head into the match on the back of a five-day turnaround having played on Friday night in the NPL, a 2-1 win over Pascoe Vale thanks to goals from Elvis Kamsoba and Katebian.

In contrast, Marconi were in action on Sunday in the NSW NPL and have to travel to Melbourne for their return to the national stage.

While they head into the clash on the back of a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Rockdale City, which has hurt their finals hopes, Peter Tsekenis has an experienced squad at his disposal.

Michael Beauchamp, Mateo Poljak and Marc Warren have a stack of Hyundai A-League matches under their belt, while Marko Jesic, Sean Rooney and the speedy James Andrew will provide the threat in attack.


LIONS FC v OLYMPIC FC

Currently first and second on the NPL Queensland ladder with just one point between them, it’s the prospect of a cracking local derby at Lions Stadium.

The two sides have already met twice this season in the league, sharing 1-0 wins, ensuring we’re in for another tight battle on Wednesday night.

Both clubs have advanced to the last 16 of the FFA Cup in the past and would love nothing more than to do it again at the expense of their fierce local rivals.

There’s stacks of talent in both squads with Ben Cahn’s Olympic boasting the likes of Jez Lofthouse, Shane Stefanutto, Alex Smith and Matt Mundy, while Lions FC – coached by Warren Moon – will rely on the likes of Chris Maher, Shaun Carlos and Josh Brindell-South.

“To get a Brisbane derby? This is the magic of the Cup,” Moon said.

“Getting a home game is a big advantage but it would have been a bigger advantage if it was an interstate team we were playing.”


PORT MELBOURNE SHARKS v APIA LEICHHARDT TIGERS

The second Victoria v NSW all-Member Federation clash pits an intriguing battle at JL Murphy Reserve.

The Sharks are enjoying an excellent season in the Victorian NPL, currently in fifth spot after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Oakleigh Cannons on Friday night.

They’ll look to the likes of James Papadimitriou and Sam Smith for their goal threat, while Kamal Ibrahim and Francesco Stella are other players to watch.

APIA is currently the top team in the NSW NPL, despite being held to a 1-1 draw by the Wollongong Wolves over the weekend.

In their second-straight year in the FFA Cup, the Tigers are a dangerous outfit, especially with the likes of Jordan Murray, Tasuku Sekiya and the Symons brothers – Sean and Josh – in excellent form.

APIA took out the NSW Waratah Cup earlier this month - pic courtesy of Football NSW
BONNYRIGG WHITE EAGLES v HAKOAH SYDNEY CITY EAST

A NSW derby promises plenty of spice and should have a few goals two, with eight scored in the two meetings between these clubs already this season.

While Bonnyrigg are ahead of Hakoah in the league in NSW, it’s been the boys from Sydney’s East which have won both previous meetings, including a 4-2 triumph just last month.

Both teams saw their finals hopes extinguished in the NSW NPL over the weekend, the White Eagles going down 2-1 against Sydney United, while Hakoah was beaten by Blacktown City by the same score.

But Cup football is a different matter altogether and both clubs can now put full focus on this competition as they look to reach the last 16.

Attackers Anthony Frangie and Andre De Jong hold the key for Hakoah to win this one, both having found the net against Bonnyrigg already this season.

But the hosts will fancy their chances of turning the tide against Hakoah, with the likes of Jewook Woo and Shervin Adeli players to watch.

GWELUP CROATIA v ADELAIDE COMETS

This looms as a battle which is difficult to predict between a side from the second tier in WA and the Comets from South Australia’s NPL.

For Gwelup, reaching the Round of 32 is an achievement in itself, having knocked out a couple of Western Australian NPL clubs on their way to this stage of the competition.

And now they are here they won’t want to make it a brief experience, and with a home clash at Dorrien Gardens they’ll have local support on their side.

They also enjoyed a sensation 3-0 win over Ashfield on the weekend, with Isaac Koomson (two) and Benjamin Kovadio getting on the scoresheet.

The Comets will prove a tough hurdle for the hosts, having come through a tough qualifying phase to be South Australia’s sole Member Federation representative.

They are bound for finals football in their NPL competition and showed great character to snatch a 2-2 draw with Adelaide City over the weekend thanks to late strikes from Terence Carter and Christopher Pepe.

And in striker Andreas Wiens, they have a prolific goal-scorer who will relish his chance on the national stage.


CANBERRA FC v BROADMEADOW MAGIC

It’s the newcomers from the ACT up against FFA Cup regulars from Northern NSW at Deakin Stadium, in a content that could go either way.

While Canberra FC lost over the weekend, results elsewhere means they remain at the top of the ladder in the nation’s capital.

And they’ll want to bounce back to form quickly at Deakin Stadium because Broadmeadow is a side in white-hot form after banging in five unanswered goals in their drubbing of Valentine FC over the weekend.

Canberra FC have youngster Jordan Thurtell in goal and he’ll hope to have a quiet night, while at the other end it will be left to the likes of Kofi Danning, Thomas James and Ryan Keir to come up with the magic in the attacking third.

For Broadmeadow, currently in second spot on the Northern NSW ladder, James Virgili and Kale Bradbery are the players the home side will need to shut down.


WEDNESDAY NIGHT’S ROUND OF 32 MATCHES

• Port Melbourne Sharks v APIA Leichhardt Tigers – JL Murphy Reserve
• Lions FC v Olympic FC – Lions Stadium
• Canberra FC v Broadmeadow Magic – Deakin Stadium
• Avondale FC v Marconi Stallions – ABD Stadium
• Gwelup Croatia v Adelaide Comets – Dorrien Gardens
• Bonnyrigg White Eagles v Hakoah Sydney City East – Bonnyrigg Sports Club

 

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Official match hashtags for 2018 FFA Cup
FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

PRIZE: Vote for your best goal and win tickets to 2018 FFA Cup Final

Here’s all the official hashtags for the Round of 32.

WEDNESDAY, 25 JULY
#AVNvMST – Avondale FC v Marconi Stallions

#CANvBMM – Canberra FC v Broadmeadow Magic

#PMSvALT - Port Melbourne Sharks v APIA Leichardt Tigers

#LFCvOLY - Lions FC v Olympic FC

#BWEvHAK - Bonnyrigg White Eagles v Hakoah Sydney City East

#GWEvADC - Gwelup Croatia v Adelaide Comets



WEDNESDAY, 1 AUGUST
#RCSvSYD – Rockdale City Suns v Sydney FC

#HFCvCCB - Heidelberg United v Charlestown City Blues

#CNSvARM - Cairns FC v Armadale SC

#ADLvCCM – Adelaide United v Central Coast Mariners



TUESDAY, 7 AUGUST

#HELvWSW - Hellenic AC v Western Sydney Wanderers

#BGRvWEL - Bentleigh Greens v Wellington Phoenix

#GCKvNEW - Gold Coast Knights FC v Newcastle Jets

#NCYvDEV - Northcote City FC v Devonport Strikers

#PERvMVC - Perth Glory v Melbourne Victory

#BRIvMCY - Brisbane Roar v Melbourne City

 

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https://www.theffacup.com.au/news/ffa-cup-2018-round-32-get-underway-wednesday

 

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More viewing options for football fans as My Football Live app match streams commence
FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

READ: How to get around the Round of 32 tonight

PRIZE: Vote for your best goal and win tickets to 2018 FFA Cup Final

Download the My Football Live app now from the App Store for iOS and Google Play for Android

As part of the deal, Telstra have since created and launched the My Football Live app, which features all the latest news, information and video from Australia’s top teams and competitions, including the Hyundai A-League, Westfield W-League, FFA Cup, Caltex Socceroos, and Westfield Matildas.

Tonight’s tie between Avondale and Marconi will kick-off a huge year of live football streaming on the My Football Live app. Each of FOX SPORTS’ main broadcast fixtures during the FFA Cup 2018 will be available live via the app, while every fixture played throughout the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 Season – which kicks off on October 19 when Adelaide United hosts Sydney FC – will also be available.

Selected Westfield W-League, Caltex Socceroos, and Westfield Matildas matches will also be available live via the app.

FFA Chief Executive Officer, Mr David Gallop AM, said he’s delighted that a game from a competition established to unite the grassroots and professional levels of football in Australia will be the first to be streamed via the My Football Live app.

“When we announced our digital rights partnership with Telstra in May, part of our promise to football fans was to make football more readily accessible on mobile devices,” said Gallop.

“Over the past three months a significant amount of work has gone into the My Football Live app, so we are delighted that tonight an FFA Cup fixture between two great community clubs will be the debut game available.”

“I would like to thank Telstra, FOX SPORTS, as well as many of our staff who have worked tirelessly on this project,” he said.

Joe Pollard, Group Executive Media and Chief Marketing Officer, Telstra, said: “Telstra is the home of live Australian sport on-the-go, and we’re committed to making matches available to all Australians on their mobiles, and live, fast and data-free for Telstra customers”.

“The demand by sports-mad fans live streaming their favourite games has reached unprecedented levels with the audience subscribing to Telstra’s Live Pass increasing to well over 1.5 million.”

The My Football Live app is available via a free download from both the App Store and Google Play Store.

Telstra mobile customers can access all match live streams free of charge as part of their plans, while non-Telstra customers can unlock matches by purchasing a $99.99 annual Live Pass, $16.99 monthly Live Pass, or $4.99 weekly Live Pass. Telstra are also offering a free two (2) weeks trial for all new subscribers.

A record 772 clubs across Australia entered the FFA Cup 2018 competition. This number includes 761 clubs from Australia’s nine Member Federations who competed in the FFA Cup 2018 Preliminary Rounds, the NPL 2017 Champions Heidelberg United, and the 10 Hyundai A-League clubs.

Tonight’s fixture between Avondale FC and Marconi Stallions FC – one of six FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 matches being played across the nation this evening – will kick-off at 7.30pm (AEST).

Avondale FC (VIC) v Marconi Stallions FC (NSW)
Wednesday, 25 July 2018
ABD Stadium, Broadmeadows, Victoria
Kick-off: 7.30pm (AEST)
Referee: Stephen Lucas
Assistant Referee 1: Wilson Brown
Assistant Referee 2: Daniel Ilievski
Fourth Official: Shaun Evans

TV Broadcast: Live coverage on FOX SPORTS 507 from 7.00pm (AEST)
My Football Live Stream: Download the My Football Live app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Match stream is free for Telstra customers. Non-Telstra customers can register for a Telstra Live Pass. Telstra are offering a free two (2) week trial for all new subscribers.

Join the conversation on Twitter using the hashtag #AVNvMST #FFACup

For ticketing information please visit https://www.theffacup.com.au/tickets

Avondale FC Squad: 1. Chris OLDFIELD (Gk), 2. Ramazan TAVSANCIOGLU, 3. James RICCOBENE, 5. Jeffrey FLEMING, 6. Anthony STRANO, 7. Stefan ZINNI, 8. Jem BERKANT, 10. Jonatan GERMANO, 11. Evan CHRISTODOULOU, 13. Yitay TOWNS, 14. Kaine SHEPPARD, 15. Ross ARCHIBALD, 17. Phillip RICCOBENE, 19. James ALVAREZ, 20. John-Mark OFFEH, 22. Dillon JAKUPI, 23. Christian INGLESE, 27. Elvis KAMSOBA, 33. Joseph KATEBIAN, 38. Liam BOLAND, 44. Evan MARKOGIANNAKIS (Gk)

Marconi Stallions FC Squad: 1. Nenad VEKIC (Gk), 3. Liam YOULLEY, 4. Troy DANASKOS, 5. Michael BEAUCHAMP, 6. Sean O’CONNELL, 8. Sean ROONEY, 10. Marko JESIC, 11. Judah CLEUR, 12. James ANDREW, 13. Luke GEARIN, 14. Peter PELEKANOS, 15. Mateo POLJAK, 16. Hassan JALLOH, 17. Theo KOFINAS, 18. Peter TRIANTIS, 19. Eros BERGAMIN, 21. Kristian SEKUTOSKI (Gk), 22. Brandon VELLA, 23. Christopher NUNES, 27. Mason INGRAM, 38. Yianni NICOLAOU, 41. Alex GOLLAN, 51. Jacob CHAPMAN (Gk)

FFA Cup Digital & Social Media
Website: www.theffacup.com.au
Twitter: @FFACup
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ffacup
Instagram: @FFACup

 

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https://www.theffacup.com.au/news/live-coverage-ffa-cup-round-32-opening-night

 

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FFA Cup Watch: Who could earn a Hyundai A-League call-up with big performances tonight?
FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

READ: How to get around the Round of 32 tonight

PRIZE: Vote for your best goal and win tickets to 2018 FFA Cup Final

We’ve picked out five players who could enhance their claims of a Hyundai A-League call-up with a big performance tonight.

Tasuku Sekiya (APIA Leichhardt)

APIA pulled off a major coup when they convinced Sekiya to join the club from Japan last year.

The 25-year-old is one of the most talented players in the NSW NPL and is a major reason why the Tigers have been so consistent over the last two years.

Striking up a great partnership with Jordan Murray in attack, Sekiya has found the net nine times from 19 games in the league this season but has created just as many goals for the league-leaders in NSW.

A genuine excitement machine and someone the Port Melbourne Sharks will need to stop if they are to win tonight!

Tasuku Sekiya
Jez Lofthouse (Olympic FC)

There’s a real buzz about this teenager in Queensland, who has burst onto the scene with Olympic FC.

A skillful and pacy winger, Lofthouse also has an eye for goal with 11 for the campaign for the side currently sitting in second spot in the Queensland NPL.

And many of his goals have been spectacular, going viral on social media.

With teammates like Shane Stefanutto and Alex Smith, Lofthouse has plenty of experience he can draw from as he looks to propel Olympic FC past Lions FC and into the Round of 16.

Joey Katebian (Avondale)

The classy 22-year-old already has some Hyundai A-League experience at Melbourne Victory and Brisbane Roar and is pressing to get back there after starring for the Victorian NPL high-flyers.

Katebian has banged in seven goals in 15 games for Avondale this season but offers more to the side than just his goals, often providing a great link between midfield and attack.

While he has a thriving business on the side - Coffee Nerd – he hasn’t given up on a professional football career so a big performance against Marconi Stallions tonight is sure to help his cause.

Joey Katebian in action for Brisbane Roar.
Anthony Frangie (Hakoah Sydney City East)

The attacking midfielder is an exciting prospect, taking his game to a new level win the NSW NPL this season.

Frangie has scored 10 goals in just 15 games for Hakoah in the league this season, an impressive return for a player who is still just 21 years of age.

He’s already scored against Bonnyrigg this season and if he can inspire Hakoah into the last 16 with another big display, it’s sure to have him on the radar of the Hyundai A-League clubs.

Anthony Frangie in action during the 2017 FFA Cup.
Andreas Weins (Adelaide Comets)

The Comets have reached the FFA Cup Round of 32 for the first time in the club’s history, largely thanks to the goals of Weins.

The German-born striker has been prolific in the South Australian NPL in recent seasons and has 13 from just 18 games for the fourth-placed Comets in 2018.

With Hyundai A-League clubs always on the lookout for consistent goalscorers, Weins could put his case forward with a big game against Gwelup Croatia.

 

[Rowdy]

Unbelievable how quick my reflexes have become with the remote:
"pausing' then
'fast-forwarding' at speed,
whenever that fcuk'n Liam Boland's goal
comes on FoxSports FFA Cup highlight package before the game.

Makes me feel

 

[Rowdy]

'Hoole' playing for Broadmeadow Magic tonite ..... any relation ??

 

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http://www.alantv.info/oleoletvcom_...gruD2k4Y9GxFX1SRkYkZZH0o8V-1ElZrH_31G4Q,.html

 

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1-0 APIA