SOUTH Armidale Scorpions might have indifferent form leading into tomorrow’s FFA Cup match against Broadmeadow Magic but can push all that aside by scoring a fairytale win in the nation-wide knockout competition modelled on England’s FA Cup.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
That the Scorpions got to Newcastle as rank outsiders against the Magic sits easily with the South Armidale side.
The Joe Campbell-coached side is relishing the trip, just as they have enjoyed the preliminary rounds, winning their way through extra-time penalty shoot-outs along the way.
“It’s a big trip for us,” Campbell said.
“It will be a great experience for all the players and great for the club too.
“It’s probably the biggest game in the club’s history.
“Playing the grand final last year was great but this is probably the highest standard level the boys will play.
“It’s a great opportunity for them as well as the club and all our sponsors.”
Disappointing was the assessment of the 4-2 loss to Tamworth FC last Saturday after they had beaten traditional Armidale rivals North Armidale Redmen the week before.
Jamie Wright was also red-carded against Tamworth FC for dissent but he’s right to play tomorow.
“We’ll be basically at full strength,” Campbell said.
The Scorpions had a few players away for last Saturday’s loss but Campbell believes he will be close to full strength.
“We get a few back from uni holidays,” he said.
“Two are from the North Coast and one from Central NSW but they’re all coming to Newcastle.
“It’s obviously going to be tough down there but it’s going to be a great experience for these guys.”
Meanwhile, Round 9 of the NIF’s Premier League continues tomorrow with just the one Northern Conference game where East Armidale host unbeaten Joeys FC at Doody Park tomorrow.
Three Southern Conference games will be played at Narrabri, Moree and Gunnedah tomorrow, Namoi United hosting North Companions, Moree FC at home to unbeaten conference leaders Oxley Vale Attunga and Gunnedah United tackling resurgent Tamworth FC at Wolseley Park.
