All systems go for Marconi Stallions U15?s at Manchester United Premier Cup
The promising Stallions side have been drawn against Spanish giants Atletico Madrid, Italian powerhouse outfit AS Roma, tricky Chilean side Colo Colo and Thailand?s AC Thonburi.
Coach Pat Faga has been busily preparing his squad for this prestigious tournament after they claimed the Pacific champions title after an impressive 2-0 victory over New Zealand champions Waitakere City FC in May.
The Stallions have become the first Australian side in its 17-year history to qualify for the tournament and all will be put on the line on Wednesday August 5 as they tackle Thailand?s AC Thonburi in their debut match at 6.30pm (AEST).
Following their clash against the Thai club, at 2.30am (AEST) they play their second match against Colo Colo.
Day 2 (Thursday August 5) of the prestigious tournament will see the Stallions challenge AS Roma at 7.30pm (AEST) before finishing up with their final match against Atletico Madrid at 2.30am.
Should the youngsters prevail in the group stages the knockout section of the tournament begins on the 7th of August with the final set down for the 8th of August to be played out at Old Trafford?s ?Theatre of Dreams?.
The Manchester United Premier Cup started out as a regional tournament in 1993 and has grown into one of the largest and best known football events of its kind.
Over one million players have taken part with over 9,000 teams from more than 43 countries competing this year.
A number of talented world football stars have been involved in the Manchester United Premier Cup as the likes of Brazilian ace Robinho, Manchester United twins Rafael and Fabio Da Silva, Argentine stars Lionel Messi and Carlos Tevez, Spanish sensations Fernando Torres, Andrea Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas are just some of the players that have made a presence in this tournament.
Seen as being a once in a life time opportunity for many of these aspiring young footballers, the Stallions will be out in full force in making Australia proud as they compete against some of the best U15s teams from around the globe.
Marconi Stallions U15s squad: Daniel Adamson, Geordy Armsworth, Harrison Brown, Daniel Cianci, Daniel Di Ruocco, Steven Drewery, Delfeayo Francis, Jackson Franich, Steve Karras, Jake McGing, Luke Mesiti, Anthony Proia, Jake Stein, Dillon Vorster, Dario Vujovic.
Coach: Pat Faga
Team Manager: Campbell Clout
-By Mark Stavroulakis
