Sydney Olympic may have suffered a defeat by Sydney FC, failing to progress to the FFA Cup Round of 16, however, it championed in defending its pride as one of the old NSL giants and one of the pioneer football clubs of the country.

The club, hugely supported by the Greek community, put up a valiant effort but was eventually outclassed by last season’s A-league finalists losing 2-4 in the Round of 32.

In front of 3, 271 spectators (as was announced), a crowd rarely seen these days at Belmore Sports Ground, Olympic had an impressive first-half performance which, to the shock of the visitors and their thunderous supporters, saw them produce the match’s first goal.

New recruit, Sam McIllhatton, began a counter-attack in the 30th minute which saw winger Adam Parkhouse’s left-footed strike deflect over the head of the opposition’s goalkeeper, Andrew Redmayne, and into the goal.

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Olympic enjoyed their lead over the A-League giants for 14 minutes before a free kick saw Sydney FC striker Adam Le Fondre equalise for his side with a headed tap-in from close range.

The match was in the balance at the break but Sydney FC’s quality shone through in the second which was marked by heavier rainfall than the first.

In the 59th minute, a mistake from Olympic in midfield saw the Sky Blues’ striker Patrick Wood drive into the box and release a powerful left-footed strike past goalkeeper Nicholas Sorras, giving Sydney FC a 1-2 lead.

Coach Steve Corica’s side controlled proceedings and scored again in the 78th minute after some good attacking play which saw Le Fondre head the ball across goal to teammate Elvis Kamsoba, who finished it off, making it 1-3.

The “Hellenic” team mustered some strength and managed to get a goal back after playmaker Brendan Cholakian’s free kick glanced off of Sydney defender Liam McGing and into the back of the net.

The A-League side ensured victory in the 90+2nd minute when a looping header was latched onto by substitute Trent Buhagiar, who lobbed the ball over an advancing Sorras, making it 2-4.

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Sydney FC will play in the Round of 16 fellow A-League club, Macarthur FC.

The match had an element of festivity with tasty Greek food offered to the crowd and a musical performance during half time by the well-known Tassos with his bouzouki, who exhilarated the crowd.