Waitakere prepare for football grand final

Waitakere United secured back to back NZFC Minor Premierships thanks to the point earned in Dunedin on the weekend and can now look forward to a week off before hosting the Grand Final on Sunday April 20 at Douglas Field.

The 2 all draw with an improved Otago side might not be seen as a great dress rehearsal a fortnight out from the Grand Final but Head Coach Chris Milicich was content with his side’s performance.

“We got what we needed out of the game against a much improved Otago side. Both their goals came from set piece and to be fair to them they got runners in behind us really well and caused us a few issues but it is nothing we can’t fix for the final.”

United will welcome back a number of key players for the final, notably defenders Danny Hay, Neil Emblen and Darren Bazeley, none of whom made the trip South.

That experience will be vital says Milicich.

“We have shown already this year that we can win games when under pressure and that is exactly what we will face in the final. It is the players who have been there and done that who must lead the way and in our case we have players who have run out at Wembley, Barcelona and Premier League grounds.

“Add to that mix the youth and pace of Allan Pearce, Roy Krishna, Benji Totori and Jake Butler and you have an exciting squad of players, all of whom are hungry for success.”

Waitakere United’s opponent won’t be known until after this Saturday’s semi final clash between Auckland City and Team Wellington at Kiwitea Street. Milicich expresses no preference as to who he would rather play.

“It doesn’t matter, they are both quality sides and both will come ready to take us on. We must concentrate on our own preparation and being ready on the day. At our very best we will be difficult for any team to stay with, anything below that and we are vulnerable against any opposition.”

Executive Chairman Rex Dawkins is excited about the prospect of a big game at the new stadium.

“The two club games and O-League game have been good warm up matches if you like for the real thing. The league match against Auckland drew 2,000 spectators, I am hoping we can get at least 4,000 in for this one given it is a Grand Final with so much riding on it. With 3,000 covered seats in the grandstand and plenty of room on the grass banks it would be fantastic to have the support of the West Auckland community behind us as we chase our first NZFC title.”

Tickets can be pre-purchased but entry to the ground is on a first in best dressed situation so fans are warned to arrive early to get the best seats. Having said that, the grandstand offers fantastic viewing from all vantage points, providing comfort and facilities like no other ground in the NZFC.

NZFC Grand Final

Douglas Field

Trusts Stadium

Sunday 20th April

2pm KO

$10 Adults

$5 Children under 15 and Senior Citizens

Tickets available at the gate or pre sales at www.waitakereunited.co.nz

Entry via Main Gates on Central Park Drive ONLY