Tonight marks the start of Round 7 of the Men’s National League Championship. Auckland City FC suffered their first defeat against Western Springs last weekend, opening the door for several teams now in contention for a spot in the final.

Here are all the matches for the weekend:

Wellington Olympic vs Western Suburbs

This will be the opening match of the round, kicking off tonight at 7:00 PM at Martin Luckie Park.

Despite still having a mathematical chance of making the finals, ‘The Greeks’ are reeling from a tough loss to Birkenhead United on home turf, complicating their hopes of defending the title they won last year. With several teams ahead of them in the standings, Paul Ifill’s side must secure a win against last-placed Western Suburbs, who have managed just one point so far.

Western Springs vs Cashmere Technical

This match will start at 4:00 PM at Seddon Fields and is the only fixture on Saturday in the Men’s National League Championship.

Under the guidance of Scott Hales, Western Springs recently achieved their first victory against Auckland City FC in the National League, putting them just four points away from the finals with three games remaining.

Despite the significant win against Albert Riera’s side, Western Springs has had an inconsistent season, recording three wins and three losses. It’s crucial for them to secure a victory to boost their chances of qualifying. They boast a strong attacking prowess, led by Emiliano Tade and Matt Ellis, along with a dynamic midfield featuring Reid Drake, Jackson Manuel and Wan Gatkek. However, they’ve occasionally been vulnerable in defence, making them one of the league's most conceded teams.

On the other hand, Cashmere Technical started strongly with a resounding 4-0 victory over Western Suburbs but have since slipped out of contention due to two losses and a draw. Currently eighth, they've won just one match, but they remain a tough opponent, featuring one of the league’s most effective strikers, Garbhan Coughlan.

Western Springs will have a double-header tomorrow, as the women's team plays at 12:00 PM against Central Football. The club will also launch a new mental health initiative: “Kick Off for Mental Health.” It’s set to be a good day, with Seamus Marten from the popular podcast ‘Between Two Beers’ attending and activities available for kids, prizes, auctions, food and more. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the day while supporting a worthy cause.

Coastal Spirit vs Napier City Rovers

Starting at 1:30 PM on Sunday, Coastal Spirit will take on Napier City Rovers at Linfield Park in what promises to be a thrilling match.

With Auckland City FC’s defeat last weekend, both teams see their chances of reaching the finals improve. Currently, they sit on 11 points, just two behind Auckland City FC and Birkenhead United at 13.

Coastal Spirit’s performance is no longer a surprise. Managed by Robbie Stanton, they are one of the league's top scorers with 15 goals. Alejandro Steinwascher’s scoring prowess has been complemented by the impressive form of David Yoo (who previously played for Christchurch United), making them one of the most dangerous attacking duos in the league. With only three rounds to go, the South Island side is in a solid position to contest the finals, making this match crucial against a direct rival.

Bill Robertson’s side recently pulled off a key comeback against Cashmere Technical. Losing at Bluewater Stadium last weekend they turned the game around in the second half with goals from Oscar Faulds and Adam Hewson, now placing them in the top four of the league. Napier City Rovers face tough fixtures in their next two matches against Auckland City FC and Wellington Olympic, so securing a victory at Linfield Park on Sunday is vital.

Auckland City FC vs Wellington Phoenix Reserves

The ‘Navy Blues’ will be aiming to bounce back at Kiwitea Street on Sunday from 2:00 PM, following last week’s upset.

Following their first loss to Western Springs last weekend, Auckland City FC finds themselves in a tightly contested race at the top of the table. Though they are the most balanced team in the league, having conceded only five goals so far this season, making them the best defence. Even with their recent setback, the reigning National League runners-up have a strong squad and remain among the top contenders for the title, especially playing at home on Sunday.

On the other hand, Wellington Phoenix Reserves recently secured their second victory in the championship. Chris Greenacre's team, primarily focused on player development, will be looking to achieve the tough task of picking up points at Kiwitea Street.

Since the new format of the National League Championship was introduced, Auckland City FC has faced Wellington Phoenix Reserves just twice, winning both encounters: 2-0 at Kiwitea Street in 2022 and 1-0 at Fraser Park in 2023.

Eastern Suburbs vs Birkenhead United

This will be one of the final matches of the round, kicking off at 2:00 PM on Sunday at Madills Farm.

While the ‘Lilywhites’ are not having their best season—having only gathered four points and with no chance of qualifying for the finals—they remain a tough opponent at home.

The team features key players like Jake Mechell in attack, who will undoubtedly want to make things difficult for their Northern League rivals, Birkenhead United.

On the other hand, Birkenhead United is on the rise. Managed by Paul Hobson, they didn’t start the national phase well but have now hit a four-match winning streak that has propelled them to the top of the standings alongside Auckland City FC. Daniel Bunch and Monty Patterson are in excellent form, having scored 10 goals between them, making them the league’s highest-scoring team. Next weekend, Birkenhead United will face Coastal Spirit, and if they win this Sunday, they will head into that match with at least a two-point cushion.

Since the new format of the National League, Eastern Suburbs and Birkenhead United have met eight times, with each team winning four matches.

All the matches will be streamed live and free on FIFA+.

Article added: Friday 08 November 2024