The Clash
Melbourne City FC returns to FFA Cup action this week as the team heads to Perry Park to take on NPL Queensland side, Brisbane Strikers, for a place in the FFA Cup Final.
Head Coach Erick Mombaerts’ side booked a place in the Semi Finals following their comprehensive 3-0 win over Western Sydney Wanderers at AAMI Park in the Quarters.
Potent attacking pair Jamie Maclaren and Craig Noone continued their run of form in the Cup, with the attackers netting a goal apiece in the opening 45 minutes. Englishman, Craig Noone, opened the scoring in the 35th minute when he pounced on an error from Wanderers shot-stopper Daniel Lopar before slotting the ball home from close range.
Just under 10 minutes later, Maclaren doubled City’s lead when he met Scott Galloway’s cross with a brilliant flick to beat Lopar and hand the hosts a 2-0 advantage at AAMI Park.
With nine minutes of regulation time remaining, City secured their passage through to final four when Noone latched onto Josh Brillante’s pin-point assist, before curling a wonderful effort into the top corner.
Despite City’s strong run of cup form, Tuesday night’s clash with the Strikers will be no easy task.
The NPL Queensland side has enjoyed a tremendous cup run to reach the Semi Finals. Full of belief, the Strikers enter Tuesday night’s clash knowing that they can knock out any team, as they did when they came up against Hyundai A-League side Wellington Phoenix in the Round of 32.
Following their upset with over the ‘Nix, Brisbane defeated Manly United 1-0 in the Round of 16, before a brace from Ryan Palmer helped guide them to a 3-2 win over Victorian side Moreland Zebras at Perry Park in the Quarter Finals.
With a place in the final two on the line, we’re set for a blockbuster knockout clash in Brisbane.
Team News
With a clean bill of health, City’s entire squad is fit for selection.
What was said?
Melbourne City FC Head Coach Erick Mombaerts
“It’s a big game against a tough opponent, we want to win and book a spot in the FFA Cup Final. We want to play our attacking brand of football, to create chances and score goals.”
Where and when?
City face Brisbane Strikers at Perry Park on Tuesday 1 October, kick-off 7:30pm.
