By Michael Djordjieski

After claiming the Federation Cup and NPL Capital Football Premiership, Paul Macor and Canberra FC have their eyes firmly set on winning the treble.

His side saw off Canberra Olympic on Sunday thanks to goals in the first half from Marko Vrkic and Kofi Danning, winning 2-0 despite entering the match only needing a draw to claim the league title.

Their opponents needed all three points on offer to lock up their third straight Premiership but they struggled to break down the visitors, who were able to sit back after going ahead.

The two sides will face off in the first semi-final game at Deakin on Saturday afternoon with the winner going through to the grand final, and the loser facing Tigers FC or Tuggeranong United in the Preliminary final.

The Deakin based club finished five points clear at the top and it’s an achievement that Macor regards highly.

“To be honest the league title is the trophy I wanted the most,” Macor said.

“It means we are the most consistent team all year.”

“We had the best for and the best against record, so it was brilliant to win it.”

Golden Boot leader Thomas James missed the clash after accumulating too many yellow cards and Macor got his tactics for the clash spot on as his side soaked up pressure and cut Olympic’s passing lanes continually.

Some questioned Canberra FC’s ability to get the job done without their talisman but Macor was adamant that the win was a demonstration of the belief and unity in the squad in 2018. 

“It just shows the belief in the squad,” Macor explained.

“You have to adapt no matter who is available and who is not.

“TJ is a phenomenal player, he has been our best goal scorer throughout the year so he will slot right back in.” 

After the full time whistle blew, Macor huddled his players on the pitch to express what winning the premiership meant and what a great season it has been.

In interviews throughout the campaign, Macor always maintained his approach of taking things one week at a time and he feels that method has contributed in picking up two trophies so far.

“It’s been more of a relaxing atmosphere,” he said.

“I don’t really focus on two weeks in advance.”

“I take every week as it comes and the boys have adapted really well.”

A treble is now on the cards if Canberra FC can win through to the Grand Final next month and Macor explained it would be another accolade in an already great season.

“It [the Championship] would just be a bonus,” Macor said.

“We won the Federation Cup final, we’ve got the Premiership, so if we get the grand final it would be an added bonus.”