MEN’S PREVIEW: BULLS FC ACADEMY V MANLY UNITED
Manly United will be looking for a strong end to the NPL NSW Men’s season when they meet Bulls FC Academy on Sunday afternoon at Sydney United Sports Centre. With only one loss in their last seven games, things are looking promising as Manly chase the win that would ensure a finish in the top half of the table.
There was high drama the last time Manly played Bulls, which was at Cromer Park in Round 15. That evening, Bulls FC Academy charged into an early two goal lead, before second half strikes from Jesse Piriz, Matt Sim and Kristian Santich gave us a memorable 3-2 victory. Manly are also looking for a second win in two weeks against A-League Academy opposition – Alen Aganovic’s headed goal was enough to earn a 1-0 away win against Central Coast Mariners in last weekend’s fixture.
Bulls FC Academy are looking for two wins in a row after a 1-0 success away to Sutherland Sharks in the last round. Despite being relegated to League One Men’s for the 2024 season, Bulls have a squad full of young talent, with several of the Bulls squad having earned selection for Australian youth teams. Bulls are also coached by one of the most well-known names in Australian football: former Socceroo Zeljko Kalac.
As Manly look to finish their 2023 campaign on a high, it’s good to see that the defence has been playing well, with three clean sheets in Manly’s last five fixtures. Alen Aganovic was solid at the back against the Mariners and earned our Player of the Match award, while goalkeeper Levi Kaye continued his fine form between the sticks.
Manly’s U20 team have a short turnaround from their last game, a 4-2 away win against Mt Druitt Town Rangers on Wednesday night. Once again, Marcus Lal terrorised the opposition defence, scoring a hat trick against the Rangers to take his season tally to 18 goals for the U20s. Our U20 team enter the final round in sixth place – victory could see them finish as high as fourth.
If you can’t get to the ground for our Men’s 1st Grade clash, tune in on NPL.TV !
Bulls FC Academy v Manly United
Sunday 27 August, 3pm (U20s at 1pm)
Sydney United Sports Centre
