McNulty has eyes on the Sapphire Cup prize

Ahead of what promises to be a thrilling Sapphire Cup final, we spoke to APIA Leichhardt star Hannah McNulty on the match.

APIA worked their way through a tough draw to make the Grand Final, which featured a strong 2-1 Semi-final victory over the Western Sydney Wanderers.

“It’s a great feeling to qualify,” said McNulty.

“We’ve had a few ups and downs this season, but recently I feel like we’ve come into some really good form – I think that’s reflected by reaching the Grand Final.

“It means a lot to the club, and we’ve got all eyes on taking home the trophy.”

The famous Italian Club will be taking on Mt Druitt Town Rangers in the big dance, with APIA recently prevailing 2-0 against their opponents in the league.

“They’re definitely a strong side, there’s no doubt about that,” McNulty said when asked about Mt Druitt as opponents.

“I think that’s clear with where they are in the league.

“They’ve got a few really experienced players that lead the side well, and we’re not going to take it lightly.

“I think our performance against them in the league has given us extra confidence and we are determined to get things done on the day.”

McNulty has strong experience in the Sapphire Cup Final, after playing a phenomenal role in Northern Tigers’ success last season, giving her good stead to go again in 2025.

“That would be an awesome personal achievement,” said McNulty when asked about winning back-to-back Sapphire Cups.

“After winning it last year, I definitely have a taste of what it’s like to be Sapphire Cup Champions, so I’ve definitely got a little bit more fire in my belly.

“That would be a really exciting achievement for sure.”

Meanwhile, after a Grand Final loss last season, APIA are set on securing silverware this campaign, and the Sapphire Cup is their best opportunity so far this season.

“The club is full of great people, and I think that gives us an edge,” said McNulty.

“Everyone has such a desire to win, everyone has eyes on the trophy and that’s giving us an extra push.

“This season’s been pretty rocky, we started well, but I think we’re coming into some really good form at the pointy end of the campaign, and we’re really looking to finish on a high.”

The Sapphire Cup final will take place on Thursday, the 17th of July, with the match hosted at Valentine Sports Park and the game available live and free on Football NSW’s YouTube Channel.