NPL 4 NSW Men’s 2020 Grand Final Preview

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Lights, Camera, Action!

The curtain is just about to close on the elongated 2020 National Premier Leagues 4 NSW Men’s season.

But before it does, we have the small matter of crowning a champion. Our contenders Fraser Park and Nepean FC have met two times already this year, with two goals scored as well as two red cards. Game on!

So how did they get to Valentine Sports Park? Nepean FC have a straightforward trip, taking the M4 then connecting with the M7. Whilst Fraser Park travel across the city, taking the M4 west before taking the A28/A40 north. Oh, you mean on the field (my bad).

Fraser Park come into the contest as the only undefeated side in 2020. And yes, you read that right. Alex Araujo’s side have not lost in a competitive fixture since he took the reins. Last weekend, they will be the first to tell you that they did not perform to their usual level, scraping past Hawkesbury City FC at home.

Nepean FC on the other hand, love to spoil a party. They did just that last weekend on the road against UNSW FC on their return home. Two set piece goals to Mitchell King and Edward Stewart allowed them to reach the Grand Final on their own terms. They will be looking for revenge after a round eleven defeat to this week’s opposition.

What the coaches say:

Fraser Park coach Alex Araujo paid tribute to his side in the lead up. “I’m really proud of what the team has achieved this season. The players have stepped up in very game even when we were going through rough patches. A champion team steps up when times are tough and that is why we won the league.

Every single player has played their part. It would not have been possible without all 19 players and the 6 that had to leave during COVID.”

Nepean FC coach Joe D’Ermilio shared similar sentiments after their win over UNSW FC. “The team have been fully committed this season, despite the disruptions. A credit to all of them, with a great team bond developed very quickly. A pleasure to coach!”

Last time they met: These teams met just two weeks ago at Fraser Park. In case you have forgotten about it (it is 2020 after all), here is a short recap.

Game. Set. Premiership. Fraser Park FC secured their second piece of silverware in 12 months with a victory over Nepean FC.

In a high-quality contest, which saw both teams have their chances, an unlikely goal scorer in Rodrigo Cataldi emerged for the home side to secure victory.

Whilst at the other end, Fraser Park keeper Patrick Ferrara had to be at his best to deny the visitors on a few occasions, the likes of Matthew Crossley and Mitch Mclintock in particular threatening.

With the stage now set, make sure you catch the livestream on npl.tv, midday Saturday.

NPL4 Men’s 20’s Grand Final between UNSW FC and Camden Tigers FC will also be live streamed 4pm Saturday.

That clash will see 4th placed UNSW FC play 3rd place Camden Tigers. In their previous 2020 meeting, Camden Tigers took the victory 2-0 in another clash which took place two weeks ago.

IMPORTANT: We will share information later in the week regarding spectators and the COVID-19 plan at the venue.

By Justin Smith (Twitter: @smiththejustin).

BOTH MATCHES TO BE LIVE STREAMED ONLY ON NPL.TV

Mobile apps are available for iOS and Android mobile devices that allow for connectivity to TV’s via Apple TV and Chromecast.

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To access the premium digital pass offer, head to the Subscription page on the NPL.TV website.

Click here to view the NPL 4 NSW Men’s Grand Final Program