With a berth in the Cup final at stake, the match promises drama and the possibility of an enormous upset.
Avondale, perennial National Premier Leagues Victoria powerhouses and reigning NPL Minor Premiers, have so far been flawless in the Cup.
Meanwhile, Newcastle arrives under the guidance of former Socceroo Mark Milligan, carrying the expectations of a top-tier side eager to vindicate early-season woes. Yet, facing a spirited Avondale team on their home patch is no small task. The narrow confines of Avenger Park will amplify every tackle, emotion and decision this weekend.
For Avondale, this match is more than a cup tie; it's validation for everything they’ve been building for decades. Since their founding in 1984 and their meteoric rise through Victoria’s divisions, reaching this stage represents both a milestone and an opportunity to become legends of the competition. Their 2023 breakthrough as NPL Victoria champions further bolstered their profile, but securing a Cup final would be something even bigger.
Newcastle must balance respect with urgency. Facing lower-tier opposition in knockout football can play mind games, as the threat of complacency is always present, and Mark Milligan will demand intensity from the first whistle.
Ticket demand is expected to be high, with local supporters relishing the chance to back the Avengers in their most significant match to date. Meanwhile, Newcastle’s travelling contingent are set to make this a special atmosphere.
Speaking yesterday to Michele Viscione live on Rete Italia, Avondale coach Zoran Markovski said his side heads into the tie full of confidence.
Markovski was also adamant that the Avengers won’t be changing the way they have approached games so far this tournament, adding that switching to a defensive mindset all of a sudden can be dangerous.
Avondale will take the field believing that momentum is on their side, while the Jets will lean on experience and professional polish. A non-A-League side has only made the final once before (Sydney United in 2022), so if the Avengers win, it will be a historic day in Australian football.
Kick off is at 3 p.m. at Avenger Park in Parkville (at the Reggio Calabria Club). Kids under 12 are permitted free entry. To purchase tickets, click here.
