McMahon chasing Cup success following heartbreak in 2023

It was heartbreak for the Northern Tigers and Lily McMahon in last season’s inaugural Sapphire Cup Final when the club fell at the last hurdle but fast forward to this year and redemption is on the cards.

The Tigers went down to APIA Leichhardt FC 2-1 in 2023 but McMahon believes the team is stronger and better in 2024.

“We are incredibly lucky to be a part of the Sapphire Cup final two years in a row,” said McMahon.

“One big thing you’ll find with our squad is that we all back each other to go out there and get the job done and you can see that in our football which will be a crucial part to our game in the final.

“With the strength in our squad this year, I know we can come away with the trophy.”

It was a slow start to the new season for the Tigers but they have found form at the right time, qualifying for the final and re-igniting their push for finals football.

“It took us a little while to get the ball rolling this year but once we discovered each other’s game play, we really came together as a unit,” said the winger.

“We have put ourselves amongst the top teams of this league and although the finals series may be out of our hands at the moment, I know that if the opportunity comes we will rise to the occasion.”

Along with her side, McMahon has been in dazzling form this NPL Women’s NSW campaign.

“Playing amongst such a talented group of girls has helped me showcase my strongest game as they bring out the best in me as a player,” said McMahon.

“One of the biggest things I’ve focused on this year is making sure I’m enjoying the journey as it comes, without putting too much pressure on myself which has allowed me to play my best football.”

Standing in between the Tigers and the Sapphire Cup are Sydney University SFC, but along with that, McMahon sees the potential of players exposing their talents.

“It’s always a tough match up against Sydney Uni and I think this final will be nothing short of that. It’s an opportunity for both teams to show what they are capable of, a finals series always brings a good atmosphere and is a chance for us to be in the eyes of potential A-league clubs,” McMahon said.

“Having that opportunity there is extremely exciting as I know both teams will come out guns blazing ready to put on an entertaining battle for some silverware.”

McMahon realises the talent the Uni squad possess and the challenge that faces the Tigers on Wednesday.

“Sydney Uni are a very strong side, they have got talent all over the pitch,” McMahon stated to Football NSW.

“They definitely don’t make it easy for us, but I back the girls to go out there and put on a performance and I know that they will too.

“It will be a really good showdown between us.”

As for players to watch in their opponents team, McMahon identified a couple.

“There are definitely some key players that we have to watch out for, Talia Kapetanellis and Jamie Beaufils amongst many more, McMahon said.

“Our game plan going into this match will be to stay strong defensively to keep them out of the game as much as possible.”

By – Nikola Pozder

*Catch the Sapphire Cup Final this Wednesday at Valentine Sports Park with kick-off set for 7:15pm.

Can’t make it? We have you covered as the match will be streamed live on Football NSW’s YouTube Channel with Nikola Pozder and Will Konstantinidis calling the match.