The MCR Bert Bampton Cup - Round of 16 starts this weekend with the Premier League teams now included in the draw together with the four District League qualifiers.

Ironically and coincidentally, the District League clubs have been drawn against each other meaning that we will see at least two District League clubs through to the Quarter Finals.

Sunday 15 May

University v Kiama Quarriers @ Koolobong Oval - 2.30pm Kick off
Unversity have a pretty good record in Cup matches however they have not brought that form through to the season (yet). Kiama are a far improved side this year and could progress to the Quarter Finals for the first time in a long time.
In the Youth Grade fixture, Bellambi face Wests Illawarra for the second time in consecutive games. Kick off 12.15pm

Woonona v Albion Park White Eagles @ Ocean Park - 2.30pm Kick offThese two teams faced off in Round 4 of the competition where APWE dusted the Sharks 5-1. Not a lot has gone right for the Eagles since then and the Sharks have not fared much better. Suspect that this will be a close game that may just go the distance. Youth Grade Kick off - 12.15pm.

South Coast United v Shell Cove FC @ Ian McLennan Park - 5.00pm Kick offLate kick off in this match featuring two teams that met way back in Round 1 of the competition. It was a 10 man Shell Cove that held on for a 2-1 win. Both sides are backing up from Saturday games so it may be the team with the greater depth that will prevail. Youth Grade Kick off - 3.00pm.

Tuesday 17 May

Wollongong United v Cringila Lions @ Macedonia Park - 8.00pm Kick off
These two teams meet again on Tuesday after having played on the Sunday as the draw would have it. Wollongong United are the defending champions and will be looking to repeat their feat again this year. Expect to see United progress although I am sure Cringila won't make it easy. Youth Grade Kick off - 6.00pm.

Wednesday 18 May

Bulli v Kemblawarra Fury @ Balls Paddock - 8.00pm Kick off
This is a mouth watering clash perhaps worthy of at least a semi final however one of these two sides will bow out before the Quarter Finals. With these two teams playing out a 0-0 draw in Round 1, one can expect another close game. Kemblawarra will start as slight favourites however I wouldn't be surprised at all if Bulli take them out. Youth Grade Kick off - 6.00pm.

Port Kembla v Wollongong Olympic @ Wetherall Park - 8.00pm Kick off
In another all Premier League game on Wednesday night, Port tackle the in form Olympic. These sides met in Round 2 of the competition where Olympic won comfortably 3-0. Port Kembla have since starting to pick up a few results over the last few weeks however Olympic have been ruthless as well. I do expect Olympic to win this one. Youth Grade Kick off - 6.00pm.

Sunday 22 May

Tarrawanna Blueys v Picton Rangers @ Tarrawanna Oval - 2.30pm Kick off
Two teams that have surprised a few given their respective ladder positions. They did meet on the opening day of the competition where Tarrawanna beat Picton 4-1 however I don't think this will be so clear cut. Picton have shown they are no pushovers and could give the cup a good run. Tarrawanna on the other hand are previous cup winners and would like nothing more than to do it again. Youth Grade kick off - 12.15pm.

Warilla Wanderers v Corrimal Rangers @ King Mickey Park - 2.30pm Kick off
The final game to wrap up Round 16 sees the two top teams in District League face off. This game often produces drama and excitement as was evident in Corrimals 3-2 comeback win in Round 4. This does shape as an intriguing game and although Corrimal will perhaps start as slight favourites, Warilla will have a point to prove and a Quarter Final likely against a Premier League team beckons for the winner.

The draw for the Quarter Finals will take place 24 May.