Prendergast playing for keeps against Mariners
Blacktown City FC’s formidable number one custodian Tristan Prendergast has set the tone as the troops from Sydney’s West prepare for what will be an epic FFA Cup Round of 32 encounter when Mark Crittenden’s men travel to Mudgee to face A-League side Central Coast Mariners on Saturday 13th of November.
Tassie born and bred; Prendergast was buzzing with joy when news filtered through that their epic Round of 32 FFA Cup clash to be held at the wonderful Glen Willow Facility in Mudgee was back on following the ease of Covid restrictions in NSW.
“It was a huge relief to have seen this match go ahead after our NPL NSW Men’s season got cut short unfortunately due to Covid,” Prendergast stated to Football NSW.
“It was tough to take as we were leading the race in clinching the 2021 NPL NSW Men’s Premiership.
“Preparations have gone really well for this match however.
“We have to give full credit to every single one of the lads who have come back in unbelievable shape ready to go for this important match.
“We got back on the 14th of October as a team and have focussed on getting the most we possibly can leading up to the clash in Mudgee.”
Coach Critto will debut a couple of new faces as the Blacktown boys hope to dent the Mariners FFA Cup run with a familiar figure in Mitch Mallia returning to his old stomping ground while young gun Jake Trew and ex-Mariners striker Jordan Smylie will also look to feature in the blockbuster encounter.
“The new lads have all settled in really well and you can tell the quality they possess.
“We are such a tight knit group of players, and I am confident they will thrive on this.
“The FFA Cup means so much to the club.
“It’s a massive stage for Blacktown City to be put back onto the national stage again, not only for the players but for everyone involved.
“We’ve done well in past FFA Cup journeys and are looking to do the same again this year.”
The Blacktown boys will spend the night in Mudgee post-match against Nick Montgomery’s squad with Prendergast hoping their supporters are able to make the special trip also where they’re hoping to celebrate a memorable victory against their highly fancied opponents.
“We will be staying the night in Mudgee after our game which will be a great opportunity to further bond with the team moving forward into the 2022 NPL NSW Men’s season but how good would it be if we get that win too.
“We would love to see as many Blacktown City and football fans supporting us in Mudgee.
“We’ve got some great people supporting us behind the scenes that I am sure will be making the trip to Mudgee – And one more thing, keep an eye out for our FFA Cup kit coming soon, trust me.”
Match Details
FFA Cup Round of 32
Saturday November 13
Blacktown City FC v Central Coast Mariners
Glen Willow Stadium – 5pm
