The NPL may take a week-long break, but that won’t stop us, the passionate fans of the round black and white ball, from satisfying our cravings.
The four days spanning from March 28th to April 1st are filled with football games that cater to all tastes, ensuring that we stay at the edge of our seats.
Port Melbourne Sharks – Oakleigh Cannons
The Greek community is currently focused on the match between Port Melbourne and Oakleigh Cannons.
It will start at 7:30 pm on Thursday, March 28th. Both teams are in high spirits, especially the home team who has had a strong start to the year. Despite drawing against Altona last week, they have the capability to pose a threat to the visiting Cannons.
Chris Taylor’s team just had a tough draw against South Melbourne.
In recent years, Oakleigh Cannons have been a dominant force in the cup and it is evident that their players are determined to have another successful season.
Melbourne Knights – South Melbourne
The excitement is building for the upcoming Original Melbourne Derby, set to take place on a Thursday evening at 7:30 PM. As Knights and South Melbourne prepare to face off for the second time this season, there is no doubt that the atmosphere will be heated and passionate.
After a rough start to their season, the Knights suffered a heavy defeat from Hume City, leaving their home fans disappointed and frustrated. But amidst the disappointment, the team remains determined to turn their performance around and show their true potential on the field.
On the other side, South Melbourne understands the importance of taking this game seriously in order to secure a positive outcome on their opponent’s hostile home turf.
With their undeniable talent and skill, a strong performance from South Melbourne is all it takes to secure their spot in the next round.
It’s sure to be a thrilling match as these two teams go head to head once again.
Heidelberg United – Sunbury United
It is expected that Heidelberg will have a relatively easy task as they face Sunbury United, a team competing in the third division of the state championships.
In last weekend’s season opener, the visitors drew 1-1 against Altona North. Meanwhile, the home team played against Avondale last Saturday (23.3) for approximately 85 minutes before the match was abandoned due to an injury sustained by Nicholas Olsen.
Olsen suffered a serious head injury and was immediately taken to the hospital for first aid. Fortunately, he has since returned home and the latest report indicates that his health is not seriously affected. He is expected to soon return to the field.
Boroondara Carey Eagles – Altona East Phoenix
On Thursday night, PAOK from Altona will attempt to achieve a small miracle.
The Black and Whites will travel to Mooroolbark to face off against the Carey Eagles, who compete in the VPL2 division.
Currently, it is the third matchday of the VPL2 championship and the home team holds a record of one win, one draw, and one loss.
To have even a slight chance of advancing to the next round of the cup, Altona will need to perform at their highest levels.
Last weekend, PAOK began their competition in the championship and secured an away win against Hume United with a score of 0-2.
Goulburn Valley Suns – Westvale Olympic
On the same day and time, another representative from the Greek parish will compete against Goulburn Suns away from home.
Westvale may not have a high chance of qualifying, but their players will still try their best to take advantage of any opportunities and make it difficult for their opponents.
Goulburn competes in the VPL2 league and currently sits in 10th place with one loss and two draws.
Meanwhile, the Greek-Australian Club started their season strong last week with a 3-4 away win against Albion Rovers.
Clifton Hill – Bulleen Lions
On Friday afternoon, Clifton Hill will face a challenge as they host the Bulleen Lions in a match that will test their abilities.
The home team started their league season, beating Sydenham 0-2 in an away game.
On the other hand, the visiting team, after their impressive 5-1 win over Werribee last week, is currently at the top of their game.
Kingston City – Mazenod FC
Kingston City will face off against Mazenod on Friday (March 29) in a match that should not worry the home team too much.
Last weekend, the visitors suffered a 2-1 defeat against Eltham Redbacks in the first division of the state leagues.
Similarly, Kingston faced a loss themselves as they left Bentleighs Green home field with a 2-0 defeat.
Northcote City – Keilor Park
On Saturday, Northcote will play against Keilor Park at home.
The visitors set off their journey in the second division of state leagues on a high note as they defeated Lalor United 1-0.
Meanwhile, Northcote showed a strong performance and clinched a 5-0 win over North Geelong Warriors in an away game.
Werribee City – Bentleigh Greens
Coach Katsakis’ Bentleigh Greens, which have been recently rejuvenated, will aim to maintain their upward trajectory in the cup.
The Greens achieved a significant home victory against Kingston City, while their opponents from the same division (VPL1) had a challenging weekend against Bullen Lions. The Lions dominated Werribee and secured a convincing 5-1 victory.
Bentleigh United Cobras – Brunswick City
On Monday, April 1st, Bentleigh Cobras and Brunswick City will engage in a civil battle.
Last weekend, the hosts kicked off their league duties with an away draw against Knox City. Similarly, Leonidas from Brunswick City also drew against Langwarrin.
It will be intriguing to see if the home team can compete against the dominance of Brunswick and create a tense match for us.
Bayside Argonauts – Watsonia Heights
On Monday night, the Bayside Argonauts will be hosted by Watsonia Heights.
The Greek – Australian team started off their season successfully by winning their home game against North Caulfield with a score of 2-1.
Their goal now is to advance to the next round of the cup, but they face opposition from Watsonia.
The home team recently played a tough match against West Preston, resulting in a 3-3 tie.
Plenty Valley Lions – Western Suburbs
On Monday night, Western Suburbs will bring an end to the Greek-Australian club’s action as they face off against the Plenty Valley Lions on their own turf.
Recently, the Lions dealt an away defeat in Docklands, while the Greek-Australian club suffered a similar fate with a 3-4 loss against Whittlesea United.
Good luck to all our clubs!
THE SCHEDULE OF THE GREEK-AUSTRALIAN CLUBS
Thursday (28.3)
Port Melbourne – Oakleigh Cannons 19:30
Melbourne Knights – South Melbourne 19:30
Heidelberg United – Sunbury United 19:30
Boroondara Carey Eagles – Altona East Phoenix 20:30
Goulburn Valley Suns – Westvale Olympic 20:30
Friday (29.3)
Clifton Hill v Bulleen Lion 15:00
Kingston City – Mazenod FC 19:00
Saturday (30.3)
Northcote City v Keilor Park 15:00
Werribee City v Bentleigh Greens 20:00
Monday (1.4)
Bentleigh United Cobras – Brunswick City 15:30
Plenty Valley Lions v Western Suburbs 19:30
Bayside Argonauts – Watsonia Heights 19:30