The Women’s World Cup is almost here but back in ESFA we have been proving the East is better than the Shire in our own little world, one game at a time and are looking for our own Cups!
Congratulations to Dunbar Rovers O35 Championship who beat Bonnett Bay in their semi-final and will meet another Shire team, Como Jannali in the State Cup Final on Sunday 16th July. This is a replay of the 2019 Final with hopefully the result this time going the Dunbar gentlemen’s way. More to prove and more to play for. We wish Dunbar Rovers the ultimate success to their campaign.
We asked Dunbar Rovers Manager Lee Burney what their journey to the final entailed:
“Well, I came to the 35’s setup to try and have a less stressful football life and now find myself in a tight 2 horse title race with a strong Glebe Wanderers in the league and preparing for the state cup final. So much for long peaceful nights of sleep! Maybe next year!
It has been great to see the newly assembled team come together so quickly and speaks to the attitude and determination of the squad to be performing so well in their first season together. We know we face a very strong opponent in Como Jannali having been together for many years winning many FNSW competitions on the way.
The boys are confident, and we are ready for what will be a cracking final between two great teams”.
Congratulations also to UNSW MPL who beat Como Jannali in their Semi Final and will now meet the Cronulla Seagulls for the Bill Cullinan Cup. Whilst ESFA teams have been in recent Finals ie Randwick City MPL in 2019 and Coogee United Mens 01 in 2018, we have unfortunately never secured this Cup for the East. It’s time that changes and we wish UNSW the very best of luck in bringing it home!
UNSW Manager Michael Chen told ESFA:
“Our first State Cup experience goes back to 2018, and we were knocked out comprehensively in Round 2. Since then, we have made steady progress in the ESFA league and State Cup over the last few years (getting promoted from Division 3 to the ESFA Premier League in 6 years). As a manager, the progression is more pleasing than anything else. The hard work of our players has earned us a spot in the final, and I know these players will enjoy this special occasion. Good luck to us!”
With this being the first Football NSW State Cup to come to fruition since 2019, thanks to Covid and then the wet weather season, we are hoping the sun shines brightly on our two teams at Cromer Park Manly. Get out and support this Sunday!