All Whites Face PS4 NPL Clubs
Words: Staff Writers
Image: Getty Images
The New Zealand national team will prepare for the upcoming OFC Nations Cup tournament with a series of friendlies against Queensland-based PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues clubs this week.
The All Whites squad arrived in Brisbane on the weekend following a week-long training camp in New Zealand and will sharpen up further for the international tournament with matches against Western Pride, Redlands United and Brisbane City.
The match against Pride at Briggs Road will be open to the general public, while the remaining fixtures against Redlands and City will be played behind closed doors.
All Whites coach Anthony Hudson said the Queensland capital was identifed as a suitable base before heading to Port Moresby later this month, where his side hope to reclaim the OFC Nations Cup title from defending champions Tahiti.
“We need three games in this period, so everyone can get game time before going to Papua New Guinea,” Hudson explained.
“We also need to acclimatise to the conditions which is why Brisbane will be perfect for us, and we want as many days on the training pitch as possible, hence why are we staying in one place and reducing any unnecessary travel time.”
The All Whites squad for the OFC Nations Cup features European-based players including Marco Rojas, Chris Wood, Bill Tuiloma and Rory Fallon as well as Hyundai A-League stars Shane Smeltz, Kosta Barbarouses, Michael McGlinchey and Louis Fenton.
Also in the squad is Luke Adams, who plays with PlayStation 4 NPL Victoria powerhouse South Melbourne.
Hudson said he and his players will use the preparation as the beginning of their ambition to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia.
“Speaking to the players they are very excited about getting into camp, what is coming up and building on our preparation to qualify for the FIFA World Cup in 2018. Our road to Russia begins now.”
New Zealand are currently ranked 161st in the official FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking table.
Friendly Match
Wednesday, May 18
Western Pride FC v New Zealand
Briggs Road Complex, Ipswich
Kick-off at 6:00PM
Entry: $5 (adults), $2 (children)
Sunday, May 22
Redlands United FC v New Zealand
QSAC Stadium, Brisbane
CLOSED TO MEDIA & FANS
Tuesday, May 24
Brisbane City FC v New Zealand
QSAC Stadium, Brisbane
CLOSED TO MEDIA & FANS
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