The opening round of the new national football championship was nothing short of spectacular, marking a historic kick-off. Vibrant stands, cracking goals, and top-notch entertainment shook up the country’s sporting scene, filling fans of the round ball with optimism. Supporters craving high-level footy, rooted in the clubs of their local communities, seem ready to embrace this fresh effort by the federation. It feels like football’s last shot to thrive in Australia’s tough sporting landscape. With the A-League losing its shine season after season, a new league—potentially linked to the top tier through promotion and relegation—could be the kiss of life everyone’s been waiting for.
Heidelberg United and South Melbourne got off to a flyer in this new adventure. The “yellow and black” of Heidelberg edged out Marconi Stallions 1-0, while South Melbourne claimed bragging rights in the Greek Aussie derby, downing Sydney Olympic 3-2.
This week, Heidelberg will travel roughly 900 kilometres north to face Wollongong Wolves. The Wolves are a well drilled side, capable of causing headaches for any opponent, as proven by their impressive away win last round. They cruised past South Hobart 3-1, sending a warning to the rest of the competition.
Leading the charge for the New South Wales outfit is the dazzling Japanese attacking midfielder Kazuya Yamamura. He stole the show in round one with a stunning strike from the halfway line. Heidelberg’s gaffer, John Anastasiadis, will no doubt have Yamamura high on his list of threats to neutralise if the Bergers are to nick a result. The Wollongong Wolves vs. Heidelberg United clash is set for Saturday afternoon (18/10) at 3pm.
South Melbourne, meanwhile, will play at home for the second week running. Sinisa Cohadzic’s side kicked off their campaign in style, securing a thumping win in a massive derby. The match was a perfect snapshot of football’s history in Australia and a glimpse of a future where clubs from every corner of this vast country—steeped in decades of tradition and backed by loyal fans—battle for a shot at the top flight.
Next up for South Melbourne is Moreton City Excelsior. The Queensland outfit also enjoyed a dream start, pinching a 3-2 win away at Broadmeadow Magic, boosting the squad’s morale and confidence heading into this round.
Moreton City are a solid unit, tight at the back, well-oiled in midfield and boasting a lightning fast, unpredictable attacking line. South Melbourne will need to keep a close eye on Moreton’s striker Zachary Kierpal, who’s bagged eight goals across all competitions this season. This match is slated for Sunday afternoon (19/10) at 4.30pm.
Sydney Olympic, the third Greek Australian side in the competition, will be desperate to taste victory this week. Their trip to Melbourne last round left a bittersweet taste. The memories, emotions, and reunions with old mates warmed the hearts of the people of the club, but the job on the pitch didn’t go to plan. A 3-2 loss to South Melbourne, sealed by a late goal, stung the Olympic players, who now face a must-win clash against Broadmeadow Magic to keep their title hopes alive. Sydney Olympic vs. Broadmeadow Magic is scheduled for Sunday afternoon (19/10) at 1pm.
Round 2 Fixtures
Friday 17/10
West Apia – Sydney United – 7.30pm
Saturday 18/10
Marconi Stallions – South Hobart – 1pm
Wollongong Wolves – Heidelberg United – 3pm
Sunday 19/10
Sydney Olympic – Broadmeadow Magic – 1pm
Canberra Croatia – Preston Lions – 1pm
Bayswater City – Metrostars – 4.30pm
South Melbourne – Moreton City Excelsior – 4.30pm
NWS Spirit – Avondale – 4.30pm
