United 58 Ready For Heat Test
Words: Michael Flynn
Image: Football NSW
Sydney United 58 coach Mark Rudan has heavily scouted FNQ FC Heat ahead of Tuesday night’s Westfield FFA Cup clash in Sydney.
Speaking ahead of the blockbuster match-up, Rudan said he has left no stone unturned ensuring his team is prepared for the Cairns club, who currently sit fifth in the NPL Queensland standings.
“I’ve picked up their last four games and I’ve had people looking around in Queensland as well and giving me feedback in terms of what I wanted, so I know enough,” he explained.
“I’ve given all the players a detailed analysis of every player in their team, including the guys that come on (as substitutes) because you are never sure how they are going to start.”
Asked about Heat’s midfield duo of Alex Smith and Zenon Caravella, Rudan said he wasn’t disproportionately concerned of the influence the former A-League stars will have on the contest.
“It’s something that we need to look out for, but it’s also something we’ve prepared for,” he said.
Rudan queried Caravella’s signing last month on Twitter, but explained that far from being disrespectful towards Heat it was “just a bit of banter” intended to promote the game.
“I think it’s important to spruik up these games and if people want to take it a bit further than banter then that’s their problem not mine,” he said.
“It’s a big game for both of us and we don’t get a lot of attention in the NPL, so if I can play my part so people sit up and take notice, well then why not.”
Previously one of the powerhouses of the former National Soccer League, United are defending National Premier Leagues Champions after winning the Australia-wide NPL Finals Series last October 2-0 over South Hobart FC.
Following that success many United players departed to chase bigger offers from other clubs both in New South Wales and overseas. As such, the club has struggled to emulate last season’s glories and currently sit eighth in NPL New South Wales Mens 1.
“That’s what happens when you do well - other team’s and clubs want your players,” Rudan explained.
“We decided as a club that we weren’t going to go out to the market. We have had to rely on our youth and we had a really tough start to this year’s competition,” he added explaining the contrasting seasons.
On their way to the 2013 NPL title, United defeated NPL Queensland representatives Olympic FC 4-3 in Brisbane.
Rudan said that experience will hold the club in good stead ahead of their first ever Westfield FFA Cup match.
“It was a good experience for the players, understanding what it means to be a professional and travelling interstate and preparing a different way, albeit we are at home this time around,” he explained.
United’s home form in the league has been strong of late, winning their past three matches at Sydney United Sports Centre.
Match Details:
Westfield FFA Cup Round of 32
Tuesday, 12th August, 2014
Sydney United 58 FC v FNQ FC Heat
Sydney United Sports Centre
Kick-off: 7:30pm
Live stream available at Football NSW website: http://goo.gl/PNk55a
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