Rowley sets his sights on lifting the Sapphire Cup
Sydney University SFC will face Northern Tigers FC in a blockbuster Sapphire Cup final on Wednesday night at Valentine Sports Park.
Sydney University SFC has experienced a mixed 2024 NPL Women’s NSW campaign, currently sitting 10th on the ladder with a young squad.
“It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster to be honest,” said coach Oz Rowley on their campaign thus far.
“We’ve got a very young squad, and with the A-Leaguers joining us with that experience, the girls have gelled incredibly quick.
“Based on what I’ve seen from the start until currently, they’re getting better every game, and I think the future’s going to be bright for anyone staying with us or potentially joining us.”
And they’ve certainly shown that in recent weeks, going four games unbeaten in the league with three victories and qualifying for the 2024 Sapphire Cup final with a statement 1-0 victory over Sydney Olympic FC.
Their earlier games saw them defeat Flying Bats FC 8-2, Manly United 2-0 and Hills United 2-1 to help secure a spot in this exciting final.
“From the Flying Bats to the Sydney Olympic game, it was a bit like the season with plenty of ups and downs,” Rowley said on their qualifying campaign.
“Cup games are Cup games so everyone who performs gets results no matter what else – that’s the way of the Cup.
“It’s been a really good ride so far and I hope it continues.
“The girls deserve everything they’ve gotten and hopefully it will be a win on Wednesday.”
However, it won’t be easy for Sydney Uni, who will be taking on a strong Northern Tigers side for the trophy.
Rowley sang their praises ahead of the clash, stating, “They’ve got a fantastic forward line and the midfielders are very good as we know.
“The coach (Chris Wood) is an excellent coach and their defensively strong, and they had a great game over the weekend.
“They’re strong throughout, so I don’t want to say too much apart from that they’re a very, very good team.”
But Sydney Uni will no doubt be in with a strong chance, particularly considering their recent form.
When asked about whether any individuals could stand out on Wednesday night, Rowley responded, “My philosophy is not about the player, it’s about the team and the team effort from start to finish over the last several games has been phenomenal.
“The team is gelling better every game and team effort is the way we’ll perform.”
It’s set to be a highly exciting clash at Valentine Sports Park, with Sydney Uni looking to add yet another trophy to their cabinet.
“For Sydney Uni, it’s another trophy from all the trophies that they’ve won before me,” said Rowley on what winning the Sapphire Cup would mean to the club.
“Personally, I think what the girls have done for me from the start of the season until now – they deserve that trophy.
“I really hope we perform and come away with the trophy.
“We wish everybody the best of luck and an injury-free match.”
The match is free to watch for all attending spectators, and will also be broadcasted live on Football NSW’s YouTube Channel.
2024 Sapphire Cup Final
Northern Tigers v Sydney University SFC
7:15pm, Wednesday 21st August
Valentine Sports Park, Glenwood
