Round 1 Preview – League Two Men’s
The wait is over. Round One of the 2026 Football NSW League Two Men’s season arrives with fresh faces, renewed ambitions and plenty on the line from the opening whistle.
New challengers enter the fold, familiar rivals renew battles, and every club will be desperate to turn pre-season promise into early points. With storylines everywhere you look, Round One sets the tone for what shapes as a compelling campaign.
Match of the Round
Bonnyrigg White Eagles FC vs Central Coast United FC
Saturday, 7 February | 7pm | Bonnyrigg Sports Club
A new chapter begins for Bonnyrigg White Eagles as they step into League Two determined to respond immediately. Standing in their way are a Central Coast United side eager to show their growth and intent in 2026.
Both clubs finished 15th in their respective competitions last season, but this opener offers a clean slate. While the sides didn’t meet in 2025, there’s history here — most recently in League One Men’s in 2023, where Bonnyrigg claimed a league double.
The Eagles will be keen to hit the ground running at home, with new signings across the park and a clear focus on gelling quickly. For Central Coast, the blend of youth and experience — highlighted by the additions of Matt Hatch and Cade Mapu — gives them belief they can trouble the newly relegated hosts.
Two ambitious clubs. Familiar foes. A perfect way to launch the season.
South Coast Flame FC vs Nepean FC
Saturday, 7 February | 5pm | Sir Ian McLennan Oval
South Coast Flame return home looking to pick up where they left off after completing a league double over Nepean last season. The Flame’s attacking edge will again be a feature, but tightening defensively will be key if they’re to make an early statement.
Nepean arrive with confidence after winning the Under 20s competition in 2025 and will lean into youth as they aim to turn the page. It’s a tough opening assignment, but one the visitors will relish as an early measuring stick.
Expect intensity, tempo and a physical contest on the coast.
Sydney University SFC vs Gladesville Ryde Magic
Saturday, 7 February | 5pm | Sydney University Football Ground
Two clubs committed to youth development collide in what promises to be a high-energy encounter. Sydney Uni enter the season under new head coach Daniel Barrett, with a youthful squad eager to showcase their progress.
Gladesville Ryde Magic, meanwhile, boast a group that is growing together season-on-season and will be keen to break Uni’s recent head-to-head streak. Expect pace, pressing and plenty of enthusiasm as both sides look to set early standards.
Bankstown United FC vs Inner West Hawks FC
Saturday, 7 February | 5pm | Padstow Park
Bankstown United come into Round One with confidence, having enjoyed recent success against the Hawks and bolstered their squad over the off-season. Under new coach Michael Outerinho, the hosts will be eager to make an immediate statement.
Inner West Hawks will aim to frustrate early, leaning on defensive structure while looking to strike when opportunities arise. With both sides keen to start fast, this clash has all the ingredients for a tense, tactical battle.
Camden Tigers FC vs Fraser Park FC
Saturday, 7 February | 7pm | Ron Dine Memorial Reserve
Camden Tigers boast an imposing home record against Fraser Park and will be keen to maintain that dominance despite undergoing a squad refresh. New faces bring renewed belief, and the Tigers will want to translate strong pre-season signs into points.
Fraser Park arrive with reinforcements of their own and a clear defensive focus, knowing they’ll need discipline and purpose away from home. This one shapes as a clash of belief versus resilience.
Dunbar Rovers FC vs Hawkesbury City FC
Saturday, 7 February | 7pm | Rockdale Ilinden Sports Centre
Stability meets transition as Dunbar Rovers host Hawkesbury City. Dunbar’s squad continuity and strong finish to last season provides confidence, particularly at home.
Hawkesbury, meanwhile, enter a new phase with familiar faces stepping into leadership roles. Expect a well-organised contest, with both sides keen to showcase their credentials early in the campaign.
Granville Rage vs Mounties Wanderers FC
Sunday, 8 February | 5:30pm | Rydalmere Park
Round One wraps up with a fascinating clash between two sides expected to be among the frontrunners. Granville Rage will rely on defensive steel and attacking threat at home, led by the ever-dangerous Ante Tomic.
Mounties Wanderers return to League Two armed with NPL experience and a desire to rediscover their attacking edge. With both clubs eager to send an early message, this looms as a genuine statement match to close the opening weekend.
Parramatta FC have a bye in Round 1.
By Football NSW League Two Men’s Reporter, Dylan Costa
