Tigers star Kai Denton believes in Cupset
Northern Tigers FC’s prolific striker Kai Denton has fired shots ahead of this Wednesday evening’s Waratah Cup Final against Sydney United 58 stating his side have the belief to bring down the NPL Men’s NSW heavyweights.
The Tigers qualified for the final with a stunning 3-2 victory over APIA Leichhardt, with the Football NSW League One side going a goal down, before equalising in the 80th minute.
In the 89th minute, just as the match looked to be headed for extra-time, Denton latched onto a ball in behind the defence, drove forward and produced a perfect finish, giving the Tigers one of their most memorable nights in their history.
“It was pretty special,” said Denton, reflecting on the game.
“When we scored in the 80th minute to equalise, it was like we had to go and get another one.
“The ball was bouncing around in the middle of the field, and it fell to me.
“I always felt confident with it and it was a pretty special feeling to score and celebrate, and we’re really excited for the final.”
The Tigers will take on NPL Men’s NSW juggernaut Sydney United 58 in the final, with Denton feeling confident heading into the match.
Having scored an astonishing 18 goals from 21 league matches this season, he will be a constant threat for his side as they look to produce another memorable upset.
“They’re one of the greats of this Cup, they’ve won it a few times and they’re a consistent figure in the Round of 32,” he said.
“It’s pretty exciting to go into it, but we’re full of confidence.
“We’ve knocked off APIA so there’s no reason why we can’t knock off Sydney United.
“We’ll set ourselves up in a good way and go out there full of belief.”
While progressing to the Waratah Cup final, Northern Tigers made more club history, qualifying for the Australia Cup Finals for the first time.
“We’re so excited,” said Denton about the Round of 32.
“We’re pretty lucky to be in a good spot in the league and the Cup.
“We’re just buzzing to go.”
But for now, Northern Tigers are firmly focused on retaining their league form, where they are currently top by one point, ahead of the big dance on Wednesday, the 2nd of July.
“It would mean everything,” Denton said when asked about winning the Cup.
“I’ve been at the club for a few years now and I’ve never had an opportunity like this.
“It would be pretty special to do it with this group – we’re a pretty close group and the squads awesome.
“I’m playing with my brother and some of my closest mates, so winning it as a group against a team in the league above would cap off what’s been a good season so far.”
Watch the Waratah Cup final live at Valentine Sports Park with kickoff 7pm, with the match also broadcast live and free on Football NSW’s YouTube channel.
Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event.
Waratah Cup Final – Wednesday 2nd July 2025 at Valentine Sports Park (Field 1)
Sydney United 58 FC V Northern Tigers FC
Gates Open at 6:30pm
Kick Off at 7:00pm
There will be NO Pass Outs
Food and Drink will be available to purchase on the Concourse and at the Kiosk
