Magic of the Cup

It is about more than winning and losing this weekend for Monaro Panthers and Tigers FC, it is about playing for the chance to represent the ACT in the FFA Cup.

Dark Horses of the competition Monaro Panthers did not have the anticipated start to the season that they would have hoped for after significant changes in the off season.

As the season has progressed the side has started to find their form under Frank Cachia and this newfound confidence saw them beat favourites Canberra Croatia in the last round to reach the final.

A win that saw the resilient Panthers come from behind to win on penalties against the reigning NPL champions and light a flame amongst the team.

This marks the furthest that Monaro Panthers have reached in the competition, only previously reaching the semi-final qualifying stage.

Now with the prospect of playing in the FFA cup in their grasp they will have to overcome a strong Tigers FC side.

Tigers faced Yoogali FC in the semi-finals in a very close encounter which saw the Tigers narrowly progress through a 1-0 victory.

Leading the Tigers side from the front is the NPL’s top goal scorer Nikolas Popovich who will look to bring his impressive goalscoring form into the match this weekend.

Popovich was the difference scoring two goals when Tigers played the Panthers a short two weeks ago, helping his team to a 3-1 victory.

Since that defeat Monaro have gone on to win both their games meanwhile Tigers fell short against Canberra Croatia on the weekend.

However, this is cup football. On the night anything can happen and only one team can progress into the FFA Cup round of 32.

Monaro Panthers vs Tigers FC kicks off at 5pm Saturday evening at Deakin Stadium.