Words: Matt Dorman
Image: Western Sydney Wanderers FC

Far from just a famous former player, Palm Beach SC product Mitch Nichols is acutely aware of the danger his old club poses to Western Sydney Wanderers in the Westfield FFA Cup Round of 16.

Nichols progressed through the junior ranks to make his senior football debut as a Sharks player in 2007 before being picked up by Brisbane Roar.

Despite departing at 18, the five-time Socceroo recently gained recent insight into what to expect from Grae Piddick’s ambitious side for Tuesday night's Round of 16 clash at Cbus Super Stadium.

“I trained with them for three or four sessions in the off-season, just before I came down to Western Sydney,” Nichols said.

“They had a good cup run last year and obviously this year as well. They’re a young side and they’re fit and fast.

“I don’t think they’re going to be intimidated or scared so we’re going to have to be on our game.”

Part of Nichols’ affection for the club owes to readying him for the leap to the Hyundai A-League as an overlooked teenager.

The midfielder made 10 appearances in his first season as a professional before adding five goals the following term.

“I wasn’t one that went to the Institute of Sport or the Queensland Academy of Sport or anything. It was all at Palm Beach,” the midfielder said.

“They had a good youth system there. I got a chance to play senior football when I was young and obviously it was a good stepping stone for me to get to the Roar and a good career path for me.”

Now with Tony Popovic’s Wanderers, the 26-year-old is keen to enjoy his return home even if it means ending his old side’s hopes of back-to-back Quarter Finals.

“It will be a good experience, good to see the friends and family again,” Nichols said.

“It will be a tough game, we’re not taking them likely, but it’s a good chance for us to progress to the next round.

“It’s a trophy and we want to win it. It’s also pre-season and we know we’re not the finished product yet but it’s a competitive game and we don’t want to go out there and lose.”

MATCH DETAILS:
Westfield FFA Cup Round of 16

Palm Beach SC v Western Sydney Wanderers
Date: Tuesday 01 September 2015
Venue: Cbus Super Stadium, Robina QLD
Kick-off: 7.30pm Gates open: 6.30pm

TICKETING DETAILS:

Adult: $15
Concession: $10
Child (Under 15): FREE

CORPORATE EVENT DETAILS:

Hinterland Room, Cbus Super Stadium
Entry: Gate A Corporate Entry
When: 6.30pm
Inclusions: Guest speaker, premium seating, finger food and pre-game drinks
Price: $66 p.p.
Dress: Smart Casual

Tickets available for purchase at Palm Beach Soccer Club by contacting gm@palmbeachsoccerclub.com.au or 07 5535 9300