Dockerty Cup Preview

by Adam Palombi

Yet another Traditional Derby is only 48 hours away from kicking off under the floodlights at Olympic Village. Wednesday evening, knockout football is on the precipice where The Berger’s will host South Melbourne in the Dockerty Cup Play-off.

Heidelberg United are coming into the mid-week clash 4 nights since their last home match which was a 1-1 stalemate against season 2023 champions Avondale Fc.

John Anastasiadis called upon the Heidelberg united supporter base to act as the “12th man” upon Wednesday nights do or don’t clash.

“Our fans play an important part when we are at home, we need their support”.

Playing conditions are expected to be “cool yet dry”, making the contest idealistic for football.

Newly acquired attacking duo Sebit James Ngor and Jayden Gorman are expected to feature, with Anastasiadis not disclosing whether it is off the bench or within the starting lineup.

HUFC have experienced a rich vein of form at the expense of their longest-withstanding rivals. It was only two weeks ago in round 18 of the NPL Victoria where the Bergers would prevail in a 1-0 victory, courtesy of the audacious, outside the box effort from Japanese international Asahi Yokokawa.

South have failed to beat Heidelberg in their last 5 attempts. Despite the round 5 draw at Lakeside, The Bergers have won on four occasions against their rivals since 2022.

The knockout nature of the cup now has that extra element immersed within it. Get down to Olympic Village for a the Christmas in July instalment of the Traditional Derby with a spot in the Dockerty Cup final four up for grabs.