Late Drama, Big Statements: NSW Clubs Lock In Australia Cup Round of 32 Places
Football NSW will be strongly represented in the Hahn Australia Cup Round of 32, with APIA Leichhardt FC, SD Raiders FC, Sydney United 58, and Sydney Olympic all securing their places following a gripping Round 7 of Preliminary Round action.
The four NPL Men’s NSW sides ensured a full state representation in the national knockout competition after two nights defined by late drama, dominant performances, and hard-fought battles against determined opposition.
At Ernie Smith Reserve, SD Raiders FC edged Wollongong United 2-1 in a tense contest decided in the 94th minute on Tuesday night. The hosts struck first through Luka Knezevic in the 4th minute before Samuel Matthews levelled shortly after. With extra time looming, Jakov Malbasa delivered the decisive blow deep into stoppage time to send the Raiders through to their second Round of 32 appearance in as many years.
Sydney United 58 continued their proud cup tradition with a commanding 4-0 victory over Blacktown City at Landen Stadium. Mason Wells set the tone early with a superb 7th-minute strike before Kyle Cimenti added a header soon after. Wells doubled his tally before halftime, and Carlos De Oliveira completed the rout late to secure it’s ninth Round of 32 berth, recording them as the most successful NPL NSW club in the competition’s history.
Sydney Olympic FC survived a major scare at the hands of Fraser Park FC, coming from 2-0 down to win 3-2 in a dramatic turnaround. Fraser Park FC stunned the visitors through Ben Astudillo and a worldie from Francis McAlpine, but Olympic responded after the break with Lucas Williams and Bailey Callaghan restoring parity before Daniel Wong sealed a famous escape in the 90th minute.
At Lambert Park, APIA Leichhardt FC confirmed their place in the Round of 32 with a narrow 1-0 win over Rockdale Ilinden, courtesy of a first-half penalty from Oscar Gonzalez. The result ensured another national cup appearance for the club as they added to their growing tournament pedigree.
All four qualifiers also progress into the semi-finals of the historic Waratah Cup, with the draw to be confirmed in the coming days.
