Player Profile – Dylan Mitchell

At one stage Dylan Mitchell feared he may never play finals football with Manly United.

After playing elsewhere in his junior years, Mitchell lobbed at Cromer Park in 2009 for a season with the 18s.

The next winter the shot stopper moved into the 20s before making his first grade debut in 2011.

After finishing third in 2016, the 24-year-old finally got his wish – finals footy.

Mitchell’s joy soon turned to despair, with Blacktown City FC comprehensive 4-1 winners last Sunday in the qualifying final at Seven Hills.

“It wasn’t an ideal game,” the passionate goalkeeper said this week.

“Blacktown City were red hot, and we had no answers.

“Thankfully we get another shot, but it won’t be easy, Bonnyrigg are so experienced at this time of year.

“We owe them one after they beat us in the FFA Cup, and they have quality all over the park.”

Mitchell was referring to midfielder Ray ‘Whiz’ Miller, and deadly striker Robbie Younis.

“They also have (Aaron) Peterson and a brilliant coach in Brian ‘Bomber’ Brown,” he added.

“Bonnyrigg won the grand final last year, so we will have to be very good to win, but we love a challenge.

“I don’t want my maiden finals campaign to read two losses on the trot.”

The game has been switched from Cromer Park to a neutral venue – Seymour Shaw Park in Miranda.

Kick-off on Saturday night is 7.30pm. Live updates on Facebook.