The 2017 PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s competition draw for Sydney FC, kicking off on Saturday 11 March has today been released.
The Sky Blues kick off their first season in the state’s premier club competition first division at home at Lambert Park, Leichhardt against Rockdale City Suns at 7pm.
A host of tantalising match ups follow, including heavy weight contests against reigning Champions Sydney United 58 FC as well a second Sydney Derby against Sydney Olympic.
The Sky Blues round out the season away against Wollongong Wolves at WIN Stadium before the Finals Series kicks off on 20 August.
It’s a big step up for the Sky Blues following their promotion from NPL 2 in their inaugural season and Head Coach Robert Staton is excited by the draw.
“It doesn’t really matter who we play because it’s going to be a really great learning experience for the boys,” he said.
“We’ll be taking it one step at the time. Every game will be difficult in the sense it’s a much higher level than we’ve had before with more physical opponents and more organised teams, so every game we play will be a real challenge.
“At the same time we are confident we can make a good impression.”
The Sky Blues round one clash against Rockdale City Suns will stir up fond memories for Stanton as he faces former Wollongong Wolves teammate, and current Sydney FC Community Football Manager Paul Reid.
“Rockdale have been a very consistent team and it will be a good strong test,” Stanton said.
“They’ll be one of the top teams again and coaching up against Paul Reid first game, a former team mate of mine at Wollongong and current colleague at Sydney FC (Community Football Manager) will be fantastic. I’m sure there will be a bit of banter flying about before and after.”
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