Liiband chasing Waratah Cup glory

A Cup final is a massive event for any player and it will be no different for Manly United’s young goalkeeper Tõnu Liiband when he steps onto that pitch this Sunday in the 2014 Waratah Cup Final at Lambert Park.

The 19-year-old has been playing for Manly United’s U/20’s team this season but got the call up for the Waratah Cup games.

The confident shotstopper stated to Football NSW that confidence was the key to the club’s Cup success.

“In the opening stages of the cup, there was no real pressure or expectation because we have such a young team but as we advanced we gained confidence and belief in our ability.”

Liiband says the coaching staff’s belief helped the team on their tough run in.

“The run in the cup has been great as the coaching staff have really stuck behind our young boys and I think we’ve repaid the faith with the results we’ve achieved.”

In the Waratah Cup quarter-final, Liiband came up against one of his junior clubs in a penalty shootout, SUPA IGA NPL NSW Mens 2 side Northern Tigers.

“We did what we had to on the field but the Tigers scored a goal on the counter and so came the penalties.”

Most would feel that the youngster between the sticks could wilt under the pressure of the shootout but he stood calm.

“As the keeper you don’t feel the nerves, all the pressure is on those taking the penalties.”

Liiband is confident ahead of the final.

“On our day we can beat anyone.

“Blacktown are a dangerous team in the front third and if we can keep it tight at the back we will score some goals.”

The United keepers career goals are clear after spending some time with the Central Coast Mariners youth team.

“The next step for me would be to win the Waratah Cup with Manly United.

“ I’d like to re-sign another youth contract with the Mariners at the end of the season and then I’d like to secure a professional contract.”

-By Nikola Pozder