It was a local affair as the two Victorian NPL sides faced each other for the third time this season, with Green Gully securing their path to the FFA Cup quarter-finals after a 3-1 victory at Knights Stadium.
A frantic start saw Stipo Andrijasevic open the scoring for the Knights before Liam Boland quickly equalised. A wonder strike from Nicholas Krousoratis give Green Gully the lead, while Boland added a third from the penalty spot to secure the victory after Knights central-defender Damien Muskulin received a red card.
Boland returns with a bang
The hero of Green Gully returned to the FFA Cup scoresheet in superb fashion. The bustling striker found a way through the Knights defense with a blistering header to level the contest.
Boland’s work rate was fantastic, combining well with Krousortatis and Jay Davies throughout the match. He managed to add his second of the game from the penalty spot to seal the result in another strong performance.
Strategic Papas integral to victory
Arthur Papas’ coaching abilities were on show as he put the Central Coast Mariners to the sword in the Round of 32. Tonight he conquered another stage in this FFA Cup with a formidable plan, clearly exploiting the weaknesses in the Melbourne Knights game plan.
Boland was utlised as a target man with long balls launched into the box, putting the central-defence of the Knights under intense aerial pressure.
As this was absorbed Papas quickly switched Nicholas Krousoratis to the striking role, with his superb skill and pace demolishing their opponents on the night.
Stipo Andrijasevic performed valiantly
The Knights’ star player was on show once again, in the right place at the right time to open the scoring early on. He continued to threaten from the left-side of midfield throughout the match.
The main attacking outlet for the Knights, Andrijasevic carried a significant goal threat but needed more support from his teammates. He faded from the game late on when Muskulin received a red card.
Star display from Nicholas Krousoratis
It was a superb outing from the midfielder as he troubled his opponents all evening along the left. His ability to cut in from the wing put the home side under severe pressure.
An explosive move down the side saw him cut past his defender with a deft faint, then blasting the ball past the goalkeeper. It was a superb strike from the player who was full of confidence after an impressive first-half performance.
Familiar opponents clash in fast paced encounter
Two of NPL Victoria’s finest took to the field in what was a fast paced encounter. It was a real thrill to see two teams tussle for possession after the counter-attacking style of play largely seen throughout the round of 32.
The quality of the football is improving as we begin to approach the business end of a fascinating third installment of the FFA Cup.
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