Men’s State League 2 Round 18 Preview

With only one regular season match remaining, the Western Condors and Prospect United are equal fourth on competition points, while the Camden Tigers trail just behind and can snatch fourth spot with a win this weekend.
This week’s Match of the Round will see a top of the table clash between Hurstville FC and Southern Districts. Southern Districts will need to win in both grades and hope that other results go their way if they are any chance of taking the club championship over favourites, Dunbar Rovers.

Hurstville FC vs Southern Districts, 3pm Sunday 16 August, St George Soccer Stadium (Match of the Round)
Hurstville FC will host Southern Districts after coming off their 2-0 win over FC Gazy Lansvale last week.
Denis Cutura has been in stellar form over the last few weeks, forming an effective combination with Paul Gagro up front.
For Southern Districts, Nathan Niski continues to impress, holding their attacking framework together in the midfield.
Niski always seems to play a role in the goals scored by Districts so Hurstville will need to make sure he is well contained if they are to continue their winning streak.

Wagga City Wanderers vs Prospect United, 3pm Saturday 15 August, Gissing Oval
The Wagga City Wanderers will be looking to bounce back from their last minute draw with University of NSW last week.
They [Wanderers] were on top for the majority of the match but lost their way in the crucial moments.
An area of their game that needs to be addressed for this weekend’s clash is taking their chances when presented.
This match is a must win for Prospect United who are on equal points with fourth-placed Western Condors but have lesser goal difference.
No doubt they will be making the trip inland with a clear mindset of what is expected of them.

Western Condors vs Dunbar Rovers, 3pm Sunday 16 August, Calabria Sports Ground
The Western Condors will be looking to maintain their spot in the top four by handing Dunbar Rovers their debut loss of the season.
The Condors had a gutsy 2-1 victory over the Tigers away, leapfrogging them on the ladder in the process.
Head coach, Eric Anabalon described their win as “resilient” after having trailed 1-0 at half time.
League leaders, Dunbar Rovers secured the Premiership last week, courtesy of an outstanding goal from Sean Burke in injury time.
They too have a lot to play for this weekend in both grades, with the Club Championship in mind.

Hurstville City Minotaurs vs Camden Tigers, 3pm Sunday 16 August, Magdala Park
The Hurstville City Minotaurs will have nothing to lose when they play their last match of the season against the Camden Tigers.
It has been a rather disappointing season for the Minotaurs who have only registered three wins, but their 5-1 performance against UNSW in Round 16 should give them confidence leading into this match.
Camden are another team who must win this weekend and pray that results turn to their favour.
They [Camden] have had shades of both brilliance and inconsistency this season and will need to put a 90 minute performance together, come Sunday.

FC Gazy Lansvale vs University of NSW, 3pm Sunday 16 August, Progress Park
The only match of the round that will be completely unaffected by Finals Series football sees FC Gazy Lansvale come up against University of NSW.
Both teams have been plagued by injury this season and as a result, they have had only limited opportunities to play to their potential.
With nothing but bragging rights on the line, expect an open and fast-paced attacking brand of football.
It will also be a great opportunity to play their youngsters in order to gain experience for next season.
– By Lars Roy, Men’s State League 2 Reporter