Coffs United Lions drew Cardiff City FC in Round 6 of the Northern NSW Westfield FFA Cup today.
The Lions had 6 teams in their pool, 5 of which ply their trade in Newcastle’s Premier Men’s competition, the PS4 NPL. Cardiff, the sixth team, plays two divisions below in the Inter Zone Football Premier League, where they currently sit in 5th place.
That’s not to say Cardiff City should be taken lightly though.
The Tigers sprung an upset a fortnight ago when they came from a goal down in an away game to beat NPL side Lake Macquarie 2-1 to qualify for this round.
Lions coach Glen Williams said it doesn’t matter who the opponent is at this stage of the competition, it will be difficult.
“For us it’s just another game. Cardiff is a strong side and they beat an NPL team to get where they are, so they deserve to be here.”
The Lions face the sternest test Coffs Harbour has to offer when they take on Urunga Raiders this weekend, and Williams added it was the perfect preparation for Newcastle.
“We have Urunga this week, the Raiders are the best team we will face in our competition, so it’s good to play them as a lead in.”
“We’ve got some young blokes who want to play at NPL level. I said to them this is their chance to see if they’ve got what it takes, and we’re up for the challenge.”
The winners of the ‘Final Eight’ matches will progress to the ‘Final Four’ fixtures. All ‘Final Four’ fixtures will be drawn from the hat on Saturday, June 10.
The two winners will automatically qualify to represent Northern NSW Football in the Westfield FFA Cup Round of 32.
The Westfield FFA Cup provides PS4 NPL Northern NSW clubs and Northern NSW Club teams the opportunity to progress to the Round of 32 and the chance to play off against Preliminary Round club-based winners from fellow states, as well as Hyundai A-League Clubs.
‘Final Eight’ Fixtures
Saturday 10th June
Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility
Coffs City United v Cardiff City FC
Byron Bay FC v Maitland FC
Lambon Jaffas FC v Edgeworth Eagles FC
Valentine FC v Broadmeadow Magic FC
