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As the top five teams begin to pull clear from the rest of the pack, every result is starting to carry extra weight—especially for the bottom three sides fighting to stay in touch.

This week’s Match of the Round features the in-form Panania Diggers hosting Greenacre Eagles, in a clash between the two largest clubs in Bankstown.

Match of the Round: Panania Diggers vs Greenacre Eagles, Saturday 10^th May 4:00pm @ Kelso South

Previous Meeting: Greenacre Eagles 0-4 Panania Diggers

Panania Diggers are riding a strong wave of form and will be aiming to extend their winning streak to four consecutive matches when they welcome Greenacre Eagles this weekend. Meanwhile, Greenacre will be determined to cause an upset on the road and use this match as a turning point to revive their faltering campaign.

These two teams previously met in Round 2, where Panania Diggers delivered a commanding performance on Greenacre’s home turf, running out 4-0 winners. That display underlined Panania’s dominance and clinical edge, and if Greenacre hope to reverse the outcome this time around, they’ll need to show significantly more steel and organisation in defence.

Panania, currently sitting in second place, head into this clash off the back of a statement victory over the in-form Padstow Hornets. Despite conceding early and trailing 1-0, it was Thomas Tremolada who stepped up for the Diggers, converting two crucial penalties—one late in the first half and another late in the second—to seal a hard-fought 2-1 comeback win.

That result marked the second straight game in which Panania have overturned an early deficit, demonstrating their growing resilience and composure under pressure. While those fightbacks have shown their character, Panania will be eager to start strong this weekend and avoid putting themselves in another early hole.

This fixture also marks just the second time Panania will take the field at their home ground, Kelso Park, this season. Their last outing there saw them stage a dramatic second-half comeback against Yagoona Lions. Impressively, the Diggers remain unbeaten at Kelso in their last 10 appearances, a run that dates back to July 22, 2023—a streak they’ll be confident of extending on home soil this weekend.

Greenacre Eagles, currently in 8th place, face a daunting challenge as they attempt to snap a five-game losing streak against one of the competition’s top sides. Their most recent outing ended in disappointment against league leaders Padstow United. After going down 2-0 in the first half, Greenacre showed grit and determination to level the score at 2-2 with quickfire goals in the 70th and 75th minutes from Mathew Khalil and Abdul Zahra. However, their comeback fell short, as Padstow struck twice in the final five minutes to secure a 4-2 win.

Greenacre’s record against the league’s elite paints a tough picture—they’ve lost all five of their encounters against the current top four sides, managing to score only three goals while conceding 19. Despite this, the Eagles have shown flashes of quality throughout the season and will need to produce one of their best performances yet to challenge a high-flying Panania outfit.

With both teams heading in opposite directions in recent weeks, this weekend’s match presents another opportunity for Panania to consolidate their top two position, while Greenacre will be desperate to halt their slide and ignite a season revival.

Padstow Hornets vs Central Sydney Wolves, Friday 9^th May 7:30pm @ Padstow Park

Previous Meeting: Padstow Hornets 2-2 Central Sydney Wolves

Padstow Hornets will be eager to bounce back this weekend after suffering their first loss in five matches, as they prepare to take on Central Sydney Wolves—who return to action after a week’s break due to last weekend’s washout in the BDAFA competition.

Their Round 2 meeting produced a thrilling finale, with all four goals coming in a dramatic final 15 minutes. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with Central Sydney Wolves’ Yves Manzi salvaging a point for his side via a stoppage-time equaliser in the 92nd minute.

Currently sitting in 5th place, Padstow Hornets’ recent unbeaten run came to an end in their Round 8 clash against the in-form Panania Diggers. The Hornets made a strong start to the match, taking the lead through Mike Cklamovski, but were ultimately undone by two late penalties—one in each half—falling 2-1 to the Diggers in a hard-fought contest.

Padstow have developed a strong reputation under the lights, thriving in Friday Night Football since its introduction to the top tier in 2023. Remarkably, they remain unbeaten in Friday night fixtures in the competition and will be looking to maintain that streak this week against a Wolves outfit in need of a result.

Central Sydney Wolves, currently placed 7th, had their Round 8 match against Yagoona Lions postponed due to wet weather. Despite the weekend off from league play, the Wolves featured in their Round 1 State Cup fixture on Sunday, where they suffered a loss to Coogee United.

This weekend brings a timely boost for the Wolves, as key players Stephen Olodo, Noble Onzie, and King Emenogu are set to return from suspension. Their presence is expected to inject energy and experience into a side looking to snap a disappointing run of recent form.

Despite the contrasting momentum of both teams in recent weeks, history suggests this matchup could be tighter than it appears. Padstow Hornets have only defeated Central Sydney Wolves once in their last four encounters—something that will provide the visitors with belief as they aim to cause an upset on Friday night.

Bankstown Sports Stars vs Padstow United, Saturday 10^th May 4:00pm @ Nick Kearns Reserve

Previous Meeting: Bankstown Sports Stars 0-4 Padstow United

Bankstown Sports Stars return to their home ground Nick Kearns for the first time since Round 3 as they face Padstow United who got back to winning ways last weekend.

Their round 2 meeting saw the ladder leaders dominate in an emphatic 4-0 victory over Bankstown Sports Stars. John Martinez was the highlight of the match scoring a second half hattrick in the match.

6^TH placed Bankstown Sports Stars were not able to make it back-to-back wins in round 8 losing to an inform Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat. Bankstown Sports Stars conceded early in the first half to go down 1-0 at the break before conceding three goals early in the second half as they went on to lose the match 4-0.

Bankstown Sports Stars are yet to win a match this season when conceding first. They will be looking to pull a big result off the back of their defence this weekend as they aim to hold off a strong Padstow United attack early and then find a breakthrough to win this weekend.

Ladder Leaders Padstow United got back to winning ways against Greenacre Eagles last weekend following their first loss of the season to Padstow Hornets in Round 7. Padstow United went up 2-0 early through goals by Lachlan Harte and Andres Becerra before Greenacre Eagles brought the game back to 2-2 in the second half. Padstow United left it late, however they found gaols in the 85^th and 90^th minute through Sumathas Prasitsanpreecha and John Martinez as they won the game 4-2.

Padstow United have now opened a 5-point lead at the top of the table with Yagoona Lions Round 8 game being washed out and rescheduled to a later date. Padstow United will now be hopeful of securing an important three points this weekend to give themselves breathing room over the teams below them.

With Padstow United hoping to continue to fire at the top and Stars hoping to grab their second win of the season, both sides will bring plenty of fire to this clash.

Yagoona Lions vs Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat, Saturday 10^th May 4:00pm @ O’Neill Park

Previous Meeting: Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat 1-4 Yagoona Lions

Yagoona Lions return to action in Round 9 after their previous fixture was washed out, and they’ll be aiming to get back to winning ways as they host the in-form side of the competition, Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat.

Their last meeting in Round 2 saw Yagoona claim a dominant 4-1 victory over Strikers Heat in one of their best performances of the season. The goals were evenly shared between Jamie Bazevski and Shayne Ardle, with Ardle netting two sensational free kicks in the second half to seal the emphatic win.

Currently sitting in 3rd place, Yagoona Lions have hit a rough patch in the BPL, losing their last two league fixtures. They’ll be desperate to avoid a third consecutive defeat this weekend. However, they will take confidence from their strong showing in Sunday’s Round 1 State Cup match, where they thrashed Holroyd Rangers 5-0—a timely morale booster ahead of a crucial league encounter.

Yagoona still boasts the most potent attacking record in the league, having scored 25 goals in just seven matches. But they’ll need to be firing on all cylinders once again, as they come up against a Strikers Heat side with the equal-best defensive record this season—conceding just one goal across their last four outings.

Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat, who currently sit 4th on the ladder, come into this match as the form team of the competition. Their 4-0 win over Bankstown Sports Stars in Round 8 marked their fourth consecutive league victory. The attacking trio of Robson De Souza, Felipe Araujo, and Lucas Cezar all found the net in a commanding display.

Strikers Heat have found the right balance between attack and defence, scoring 16 goals and conceding just one during their current four-game unbeaten streak. Their recent form has been built on solid defensive structure, and that backline will be tested this weekend against the league’s most dangerous attacking team.

This 3rd versus 4th showdown is shaping up as one of the most exciting fixtures of the round, pitting the league’s best offence against its tightest defence. With both sides pushing to stay firmly inside the top four, expect a fiercely contested battle where three points could prove decisive in the race for finals football.

With the completion of the first seven rounds, every team has now played each other once, and the fierce competitiveness of the league is clear—every side has registered at least one win so far. As the second-third of the season kicks off, teams will face the same opponents they met in Round 1, setting the stage for some intriguing rematches.

The spotlight for Round 8 falls on the Bankstown Sports showdown, as Bankstown Sports Stars welcome Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat to Nicks Kearns Reserve in the Match of the Round.

Match of the Round: Bankstown Sports Stars vs Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat, Saturday 3^rd May 4:00pm @ Nick Kearns Reserve

Previous Meeting: Bankstown Sports Stars 0-0 Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat

Bankstown Sports Stars will carry a much-needed boost of confidence into this crucial clash after securing their first victory of the season, as they prepare to face one of the in-form teams of the competition—Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat.

These two sides played out a goalless draw in their Round 1 meeting, with both teams struggling to convert chances early in the season. However, since then, both outfits have found their rhythm in front of goal, setting the stage for a very different outcome in their second encounter.

Currently sitting in 6th place, Bankstown Sports Stars notched their maiden win of the campaign in Round 7, climbing off the foot of the ladder after a dominant 3-0 performance against the 8th-placed Greenacre Eagles. Esoghume Dominic opened his account for the season to give Stars a first-half lead, before Joseph Bechara and impact substitute Mathew Dominis sealed the result with late goals.

Although they went goalless in their first four fixtures, Stars have now found the back of the net five times in their last three matches, showing significant improvement in attack. They’ve scored at least once in each of those outings but will face a stern test this weekend against a Heat side that has conceded just once in their past three games.

Bankstown Sports Stars trail the top five by five points, but a win this weekend would narrow that gap to just three—offering both a motivation and an opportunity that they’ll be eager to grasp.

On the other side, Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat have hit their stride, registering three consecutive wins and climbing into 5th place on the ladder. Their Round 7 clash produced their biggest win of the season, thrashing Central Sydney Wolves 6-1 with six different players—Lucas Cezar, Felipe Araujo, Matheus Picoli, Anderson dos Santos, Franco Fall, and Abdul Ibrahim—all getting on the scoresheet.

Like Stars, Strikers Heat struggled to score in the early rounds, managing just two goals in their first four matches. But their recent form has been emphatic, racking up 12 goals in their last three games and showcasing the depth and variety in their attacking ranks.

Only three points behind the top four, Strikers Heat have a chance to break into those coveted spots for the first time this season with a win this weekend—an added incentive that’s sure to fuel their hunger.

With both Bankstown Sports Stars and Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat coming into this contest on the back of strong victories, this all-Bankstown battle promises to be an electrifying affair not to be missed.

Padstow United vs Greenacre Eagles, Friday 2^nd May 7:30pm @ Padstow Park

Previous Meeting: Greenacre Eagles 0-2 Padstow United

Padstow United find themselves in unfamiliar territory this week as they look to bounce back from their first loss of the season, while Greenacre Eagles are desperate to break a four-game losing streak and climb out of their slump.

When these sides met in Round 1, Padstow United came away with a 2-0 victory thanks to a first-half brace from John Martinez. The prolific forward will be eager to replicate that performance and add to his goal tally in this highly anticipated rematch.

Padstow United, who currently sit atop the league table, saw their remarkable 24-game unbeaten run-in regular season matches come to an end last weekend with a 3-0 loss to Padstow Hornets. A red card in the 23rd minute left them a man down for the majority of the match, and the Hornets capitalised, scoring three unanswered goals to secure a convincing win.

Known for their attacking prowess in recent seasons, Padstow United’s loss was especially significant as it marked the end of a 47-match streak in which they had scored at least once. The last time they failed to find the net was back on August 17, in a 1-0 loss to Bankstown Sports Strikers. With that streak now broken, Padstow will be motivated to rediscover their scoring touch this weekend.

Meanwhile, 8th-placed Greenacre Eagles continue to struggle, suffering their fourth consecutive defeat in Round 7 against Bankstown Sports Stars. After conceding early via a penalty, the Eagles failed to recover and let in two more late goals beyond the 85th minute, ultimately falling 3-0.

The challenge doesn’t get any easier for Greenacre, as they now face the league leaders in what promises to be a daunting task. Should they fall again this weekend, they would become the first team this season to suffer five straight defeats. However, with Padstow United also coming off their first loss of the campaign, Greenacre may sense an opportunity to pull off what would be the biggest upset of the season so far.

This weekend’s clash pits top-of-the-table Padstow United against bottom-placed Greenacre Eagles, with both sides eager to return to winning ways. The stage is set—can Greenacre deliver a stunning result and shake up the standings?

Yagoona Lions vs Central Sydney Wolves, Saturday 3^rd May 4:00pm @ Nick Kearns Reserve

Previous Meeting: Yagoona Lions 4-0 Central Sydney Wolves

Yagoona Lions will be aiming to avoid a third consecutive defeat this weekend as they take on Central Sydney Wolves, who themselves are also in desperate need of a turnaround, having failed to secure a win in their last three outings.

In their first-round encounter earlier this season, it was Yagoona who dominated proceedings, storming to a convincing 4-0 victory. Jamie Bazevski was the standout performer on that day, netting a brace to kick off the season in style. With just one goal in his last two appearances, Bazevski will be keen to rediscover his scoring touch and make another statement in this weekend’s clash.

Currently sitting second on the ladder, Yagoona Lions suffered their second defeat of the season last weekend against Panania Diggers—a particularly tough fixture given they were missing three players through suspension. Yagoona started brightly, with Paulo Alfredo and Jamie Bazevski finding the net in the first half to take a 2-0 lead into the break. However, Panania fought back with two quick goals early in the second half, before Yagoona’s task became even harder when Alfredo was sent off in the 76th minute. The Diggers capitalised on the advantage and found a late winner to seal a 3-2 comeback victory.

These back-to-back defeats have seen the teams just below Yagoona close the gap to within two points, meaning a third straight loss could see the Lions slip out of the top two. However, with three key players set to return from suspension, Yagoona will be optimistic about their chances of turning their recent form around and getting back to winning ways.

Meanwhile, 7th-placed Central Sydney Wolves come into this clash on the back of three consecutive defeats, the latest being a heavy 6-1 loss to Bankstown Sports Striker Heat. Dean Borbilas managed to get on the scoresheet for the Wolves, but the defensive issues were glaring as they struggled to contain a rampant Heat attack.

To make matters worse, the Wolves’ squad depth has been significantly tested in recent weeks due to player unavailability, and things took another turn for the worse over the weekend. Stephen Olodo, Noble Onozie, and King Emenogu were all sent off after receiving two yellow cards each, further depleting an already stretched side. With key suspensions to manage, the Wolves will have to dig deep if they are to mount any serious challenge against a strong and determined Yagoona outfit.

As Yagoona look to recover from two tough defeats with the boost of returning players, and the Wolves battle through another week of player absences, this fixture is laced with unpredictability. Both sides are desperate for a result—Yagoona to maintain their position near the top, and Central Sydney to avoid slipping further down the table—making this an intriguing and potentially explosive matchup.

Padstow Hornets vs Panania Diggers, Saturday 3^rd May 4:00pm @ Stuart Street Reserve

Previous Meeting: Padstow Hornets 0-3 Panania Diggers

Padstow Hornets come into this weekend as the form team of the competition, aiming to extend their winning streak to five consecutive matches as they take on a resurgent Panania Diggers side who have also recorded back-to-back wins in recent weeks.

Currently sitting in 4th place, Padstow Hornets achieved what no other team has managed during the 2024 season and the early part of 2025—they handed Padstow United their first defeat in 24 regular season matches. Jake Ingle opened the scoring to give the Hornets a 1-0 lead at halftime, before Mike Cklamovski continued his impressive season with a goal of his own. Ingle then sealed the result with his second goal of the match, giving Hornets a statement 3-0 win over the league leaders.

That Round 7 result also marked Padstow Hornets’ first clean sheet of the season, a boost for a defence that will be tested against a Panania Diggers side that has been firing in attack over the past two rounds. The Hornets will be without experienced defender Lachlan Bateman due to suspension, but with the possibility of moving into 2nd place depending on other results, they’ll be highly motivated to continue their winning run and make another strong statement this weekend.

3rd placed Panania Diggers will arrive full of confidence after pulling off a thrilling comeback victory against Yagoona Lions, in what was their first home game of the season. Despite falling behind 2-0 in the first half, Panania rallied through the efforts of Josh Bull and Nicholas Vertsonis, who combined to level the score early in the second half. Bull then completed his brace with a crucial goal in the 82nd minute, securing a memorable 3-2 win for the Diggers.

Nicholas Vertsonis has now found the back of the net three times in his last two appearances, hitting a rich vein of form at a crucial point in the season. As Panania prepare to break down a reinvigorated Hornets defence, Vertsonis will be a key figure once again, particularly with the incentive of potentially climbing to 2nd on the table depending on other results.

This isn’t just a 3rd vs 4th battle—it also serves as a grand final rematch between two clubs with plenty of recent history and rivalry. With both sides in red-hot form and a possible spot in the top two on the line, fans can expect an intense and high-quality encounter.

The BPL teams have had a weekend off to rest and will be fired up for the final games of our full 1^st round of the competition before teams play each other for the second time next week.

Our Match of the Round this weekend sees Greenacre Eagles and Bankstown Sports Stars meet as both teams search for an important three points this weekend.

Match of the Round: Greenacre Eagles vs Bankstown Sports Stars, Saturday 26^th April 4:00pm @ Allum Park

These two teams did not meet last season.

Both Greenacre Eagles and Bankstown Sports Stars will be determined to put an end to their respective three-game losing streaks this weekend in a clash that holds significant implications for their seasons. The loser of this matchup is set to drop to the bottom of the ladder after the first seven rounds of the competition.

Currently sitting in 7th place, Greenacre Eagles have endured their most challenging stretch of the season, suffering three heavy defeats with a combined scoreline of 13-2. Their Round 6 loss was particularly tough, going down 4-0, with all four goals conceded in a 17-minute spell between the 39th and 56th minutes. After having a week off, the Eagles will be hoping the break helps them regroup and reset ahead of this must-win fixture.

Defensive stability will be the main focus for Greenacre this weekend, as they’ve leaked goals at a worrying rate over their last three games. However, they’ll be buoyed by the fact that they’re coming up against a side that has also struggled to convert chances, giving the Eagles a golden opportunity to concentrate on reducing the Stars’ attacking threat.

A major positive for the Eagles is the return of their captain, Omar Elmustapha, who will rejoin the squad this weekend. Additionally, three players will come back from suspension, offering a big lift in terms of experience and depth. With these reinforcements, Greenacre will be hopeful of securing a win that could potentially see them climb into 6th place, depending on other results.

Meanwhile, Bankstown Sports Stars, currently in 8th, are still chasing their first victory of the season. They also come into this fixture on the back of three straight defeats. In Round 6, they pushed Padstow Hornets in a competitive outing. Despite falling behind early, the Stars responded in the second half with their marquee signing, Elliot Gurney, netting an equaliser in the 49th minute. However, the Hornets regained the lead shortly after and held on for a narrow 2-1 win.

Despite their struggles, there have been signs of improvement for the Stars, particularly in attack. After going goalless through the first four rounds, they’ve now managed to score in back-to-back matches, which will boost their confidence heading into this weekend’s game. They’ll look to build on that progress and take advantage of Greenacre’s defensive vulnerabilities — the Eagles have conceded the most goals in the league so far this season.

The Stars have shown great grit and resilience throughout the campaign, regularly staying competitive deep into matches. If they can start converting their chances, especially in the latter stages of games, they could finally break through for their first win of the year this weekend.

With last place looming for the loser and both sides eager to halt their downward spiral, this weekend’s showdown between Greenacre Eagles and Bankstown Sports Stars carries major importance. As both teams aim to get their season back on track, expect a high-stakes battle with ladder movement very much on the line.

Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat vs Central Sydney Wolves, Saturday 26^th April 4:00pm @ Crest Sporting Complex

2024 Meetings: Bankstown Sports Strikers 1-3 Central Sydney Wolves, Central Sydney Wolves 5-2 Bankstown Sports Strikers

Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat will be thrilled to return to Crest Sporting Complex this weekend as they host Central Sydney Wolves, who will arrive eager to bounce back and make a strong statement following a heavy defeat in their last outing.

In their encounters last season, Central Sydney Wolves came out on top in both fixtures. However, with a refreshed and restructured squad this year, Strikers Heat are expected to offer a much sterner challenge, making this weekend’s clash a far more competitive affair.

Currently sitting in 5^th place, Strikers Heat are one of the in-form teams in the competition, coming into this match with back-to-back victories. Their Round 6 performance was arguably their best of the season, claiming an emphatic 4-0 win away at Greenacre Eagles at Allum Park. Robson De Souza, who has now started the last three matches, starred with a hat-trick, while Felipe Araujo also found the back of the net to round out a dominant display.

The Heat have now scored six goals across their last two outings while also keeping two clean sheets. With momentum on both ends of the pitch, they’ll be confident of making it three straight wins as they return to Crest. A victory could also potentially see them break into the top four, depending on the outcome of other fixtures.

As for the 6^th placed Central Sydney Wolves, they’ll be determined to avoid a third straight loss after a difficult Round 6 showing against Panania. Missing several key players, the Wolves were caught off guard by a clinical Panania Diggers side, conceding three goals in each half in a 6-0 defeat — the largest margin of the season so far.

The Wolves now find themselves six points adrift of the top four and risk slipping even further down the standings if they can’t secure a result this weekend. With uncertainty still surrounding the availability of several key squad members, it will be crucial for the rest of the team to step up and deliver a strong performance in what could be a turning point in their season.

This weekend’s BPL fixture is set to be a significant one, marking the first Premier League match played at Crest Sporting Complex since May 25 of last year. With Strikers Heat surging in form and the Wolves desperate to halt their slide, this clash promises to be an exciting and potentially season-defining encounter.

Panania Diggers vs Yagoona Lions, Saturday 26^th April 4:00pm @ Kelso South

2024 Meetings: Yagoona Lions 0-2 Panania Diggers, Panania Diggers 1-2 Yagoona Lions

Panania Diggers will be buzzing with excitement as they prepare for their first home game of the season at Kelso this weekend, hosting Yagoona Lions, who will be determined to bounce back after suffering their first loss of the campaign last round.

Last season’s meetings between the two sides were tightly contested, with each team managing to secure away wins in their respective matchups. Now sitting 2nd and 3rd on the ladder, both teams head into this clash evenly matched, and another close battle is on the cards.

Currently in 3rd place, Panania Diggers snapped a two-game losing streak in style in Round 6, delivering the biggest win of the BPL season so far with a 6-0 win over Central Sydney Wolves. Nicholas Vertsonis struck twice in the first half, joined by a goal from Hayden Probert as Panania entered the break with a commanding 3-0 lead. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Joshua Adams scoring shortly after the restart, before substitute Mitchell Jeffs came on and netted a brace to round off a dominant performance.

Despite struggling to find the net in recent weeks, Panania’s key attacking trio—Probert, Vertsonis, and Adams—rediscovered their scoring touch in Round 6, which will give them a much-needed confidence boost heading into this crucial game. However, all eyes will be on the Panania defence this weekend, as they go up against a Yagoona attack that has been the most prolific in the competition so far.

2nd placed Yagoona Lions saw their five-match winning streak come to an end in last weekend’s Match of the Round against ladder leaders Padstow United. Yagoona made a strong start, taking a 1-0 lead into halftime thanks to a goal from Tom Markovski. But the second half unraveled for the Lions, as they conceded three goals and were hit with a triple blow—receiving three red cards in the space of the half, ultimately going down 3-1.

The task doesn’t get any easier this weekend, with Yagoona set to be without three key players due to suspension. With Panania sitting five points behind them, a loss could see the gap narrow to two points, making this a high-stakes fixture. Yagoona will need to dig deep and show resilience to ensure they leave Kelso with all three points and maintain breathing room from the chasing pack.

As a top-of-the-table showdown between two of the competition’s most exciting teams, this weekend’s clash promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the season. With Panania playing at home for the first time at Kelso, a big crowd is expected, adding to the intensity of what’s shaping up to be a thrilling contest.

Padstow United vs Padstow Hornets, Saturday 26^th April 4:00pm @ Playford Park

2024 Meetings: Padstow United 2-1 Padstow Hornets, Padstow Hornets 1-3 Padstow United, Padstow United 1-2 Padstow Hornets (Preliminary Final)

A huge clash this weekend sees a Padstow derby as Padstow United looking to continue their winning streak to start the season as they host Padstow Hornets this weekend.

A massive showdown awaits this weekend in the form of the Padstow derby, as Padstow United look to extend their perfect start to the season when they host cross-town rivals Padstow Hornets.
Last season’s encounters saw Padstow United claim both regular season victories over the Hornets. However, it was the Hornets who had the final say, knocking United out in the preliminary final with a 2-1 win to secure their place in the grand final.

Currently sitting at the top of the table, Padstow United continued their unbeaten run in Round 6, securing a big win in the Match of the Round against Yagoona Lions. After trailing 1-0 at halftime and losing captain John Martinez early in the match, United bounced back strongly. Rafa Coutinho stepped up in Martinez’s absence, netting his first two goals of the season, while Juan Asensos came off the bench to score and as they completed 3-1 comeback victory.

This weekend presents another major challenge for United, facing a rejuvenated Padstow Hornets side who are riding a wave of momentum. Rafa Coutinho will be a key player to watch for United once again—he was the difference last season in this fixture, scoring both goals in a 2-1 win. Now that he’s opened his account for the season, he’ll be hungry to add more against a familiar opponent.

Padstow Hornets, currently in 4th place, are hitting their stride at the right time with three straight wins heading into this weekend’s derby. Their latest victory came against Bankstown Sports Stars, where Manuel Angelopoulos opened the scoring early, before Stars equalised early in the second half. Once again, it was Mike Cklamovski who came to the rescue, scoring the winner in the 55th minute to secure a hard-fought 2-1 result.

To overcome Padstow United, the Hornets will need a sharp and clinical attacking display. United have conceded just three goals across the opening six rounds, making them one of the toughest defences to break down. The attacking trio of Mike Cklamovski, Manuel Angelopoulos, and Matthew West will need to be at their best—they’ve already combined for nine goals this season and will be crucial in unlocking the United backline.

The Padstow derby has consistently delivered exciting and competitive football, with both clubs sitting near the top of the table in recent seasons. This year is no different, as two of the competition’s most in-form teams face off in what promises to be another thrilling chapter in their storied rivalry.

Round 6 is shaping up to be the most eagerly anticipated round of the season so far, with two teams in red-hot form, each boasting an impressive five-straight wins to kick off their campaigns. The excitement surrounding this round is palpable, and our Match of the Round has never felt this thrilling at such an early stage of the season.

This weekend’s Round 6 Match of the Round features a top of the table clash between Padstow United and Yagoona Lions at Playford Park.

Match of the Round: Padstow United vs Yagoona Lions, Saturday 12^th April 4:00pm @ Playford Park

2024 Meetings: Padstow United 2-2 Yagoona Lions, Yagoona Lions 0-3 Padstow United

This week’s clash between Padstow United and Yagoona Lions could prove to be the most significant match of the season for both teams, with the possibility that one of them will emerge as the only undefeated side in the competition after this encounter.

Looking back at last season’s results, Padstow United holds the upper hand in this fixture, having secured a total of four points against the Lions. However, based on the current form, Yagoona Lions will undoubtedly present a much tougher challenge for United this season, making this matchup one of the most eagerly anticipated of the year.

Second-placed Padstow United comes into this game on the back of what was one of their hardest-fought wins of the season in Round 5, when they narrowly defeated Central Sydney Wolves 2-1 at home. After taking a 2-0 lead in the first half thanks to goals from their captain John Martinez and player/coach Sergio Tarazona, Padstow were forced to dig deep after conceding late in the match. Despite the pressure, they held firm to secure the victory.

Defensively, Padstow United has been nothing short of impressive this season, conceding just two goals in their opening five games. With key defenders like Lachlan Harte and goalkeeper James Maxwell at the helm, Padstow United will rely heavily on their solid backline to thwart a potent Yagoona Lions attack, which has netted 22 goals in its first five games.

Padstow United’s remarkable unbeaten run in regular season BPL matches currently stands at 23 games, dating back to Round 1 of the 2024 season. This impressive streak has put them in a strong position heading into this fixture, and they will be determined to maintain it, with the added incentive of potentially jumping ahead of Yagoona Lions to take top spot on the table.

Yagoona Lions, who sit at the top of the table, have been by far the most improved team this season and now face their toughest test yet. Over the weekend, they delivered another commanding performance, winning 5-1 at home against Bankstown Sports Stars. Jamie Bazevski was the standout performer, scoring a sensational hat-trick in the opening 25 minutes, followed by goals from Tom Markovski and Jayden Kassardjian.

The Lions’ attacking play has been electrifying, averaging 4.4 goals per game across their first five matches. Bazevski, who has netted 13 goals so far, has been the focal point of their attack, scoring at least twice in every game this season. However, Yagoona will be well aware of the formidable challenge posed by Padstow United’s defence, and they will need to be clinical with the chances they get, as they may not find themselves in as many goal-scoring opportunities as they have in previous weeks.

Yagoona’s defence has been just as solid, conceding only four goals in their opening matches. With key defenders such as Steven Kotevski and captain Matthew Zvezdakoski anchoring the backline, the Lions will need to be at their best to keep Padstow United’s potent attackers, including John Martinez and Rafa Coutinho, at bay.

This Match of the Round is one not to be missed, as it pits the league’s most prolific attacking side, Yagoona Lions, against the most resolute defensive unit, Padstow United. With both teams in top form, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter, and with only one team likely to remain undefeated after the final whistle, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Greenacre Eagles vs Bankstown Sports Strikers, Saturday 12^th April 4:00pm @ Allum Park

These two teams did not meet last season.

Greenacre Eagles will be eager to put a challenging few weeks behind them as they host Bankstown Sports Strikers this weekend, who come into the match on a high after securing their first win of the season. With the Strikers hopeful of back-to-back victories, this matchup promises to be a pivotal one for both sides.

Currently sitting in 7th place, Greenacre Eagles are reeling from a tough 4-1 defeat to Padstow Hornets on their home ground. It marked the second time this season they’ve suffered back-to-back losses. In the match, Greenacre went into halftime trailing 1-0, and despite hopes of a second-half resurgence, they found themselves conceding three more goals in the opening 25 minutes of the second half, making it 4-0 by the 70th minute. Abdul Shinnaq did pull one back for Greenacre with a late consolation goal, but it was too little, too late, as they succumbed to the 4-1 defeat.

This weekend’s game is crucial for Greenacre, as they face a Bankstown Sports Strikers team sitting just one point above them in the standings. A win could see Greenacre move to within a point of the top four, provided other results go their way. However, the task will be made even harder for Greenacre, as three of their players—Abdullatif Ghazal, Nicholas Philippou, and AJ Simms—are all serving suspensions following their side’s loss to the Hornets. This loss of key personnel will add an extra layer of difficulty for the Eagles as they look to get their season back on track.

Meanwhile, 6th-placed Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat will be buoyed by their first win of the season, a 2-0 victory over 3rd-placed Panania Diggers in Round 5. It was a hard-fought and defensively solid match, with Strikers Heat’s captain Robson De Souza scoring late in the first half and Anderson Madeira Dos Santos sealing the win with another late goal in the second half.

With momentum on their side, Strikers Heat will be determined to make it back-to-back victories for the first time this season. A win would propel them into the top four for the first time, giving them a real boost as they push for a strong finish to the first third of the season. While their defence has been one of the strongest in the league, Strikers Heat will be hoping to improve their clinical finishing and start converting more of their chances in front of goal, particularly against Greenacre, who have conceded the most goals in the competition this season.

For both teams, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A loss could see either side drift further from the teams above them, making this clash one with serious ramifications for their aspirations this season. With everything to play for, this promises to be a crucial and intense encounter.

Central Sydney Wolves vs Panania Diggers, Saturday 12^th April 4:00pm @ Lockwood Park

2024 Meetings: Central Sydney Wolves 2-3 Panania Diggers, Panania Diggers 3-2 Central Sydney Wolves

Both Central Sydney Wolves and Panania Diggers enter this weekend’s match looking to bounce back from recent losses, with both teams eager to return to winning ways when they meet at Lockwood Park.

Last season, the fixtures between these two sides were closely contested, with both teams finishing in the top four. However, it was Panania who came out on top in both encounters, securing 3-2 victories in each match. As a result, Panania has developed something of a bogey status for the Wolves, with Central Sydney only managing to defeat Panania once in their last six meetings. This history will add an extra layer of intrigue to what promises to be a tense and competitive clash.

Currently sitting in 5th place, Central Sydney Wolves come into this match following a narrow 2-1 loss to Padstow United. Despite their best efforts to mount a comeback, the Wolves found themselves 2-0 down at halftime. However, they came out with renewed energy in the second half, and after a late goal from substitute Iyaite Elias, they brought the game to within a goal. Unfortunately, the Wolves were unable to find an equaliser in the final 10 minutes, and the match ended in a 2-1 defeat.

The Wolves will be hoping to capitalise on a golden opportunity this weekend, where a win by three goals or more could see them leapfrog Panania Diggers in the standings. With Panania’s defensive form dropping off in recent weeks and the Wolves having found more goal-scoring rhythm in their last couple of matches, they will be confident they can secure a positive result on home soil.

Panania Diggers, who sit in 3rd place, have hit a significant setback, suffering back-to-back defeats for the first time since the 2023 season. Their most recent loss, a 2-0 defeat to Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat, left them with only one goal scored in their last three matches, as they now find themselves in a three-game winless streak.

With their attack struggling in the absence of key forward Mason Hunter, Panania will need key attackers like Joshua Adams, Hayden Probert, and Nicholas Vertsonis to step up and rediscover their scoring touch. A win this weekend is crucial for Panania, as they look to turn around their recent dip in form and get their season back on track.

Both teams, coming off disappointing losses, will be looking to make a statement and secure an important victory to keep their push for the top of the table alive. With so much at stake, expect both sides to come out firing and give it their all in what should be a thrilling encounter. Only one team can come out on top, and the battle at Lockwood Park is set to be an intense one.

Padstow Hornets vs Bankstown Sports Stars, Saturday 12^th April 4:00pm @ Stuart Street Reserve

2024 Meetings: Bankstown Sports Stars 1-5 Padstow Hornets, Padstow Hornets 3-0 Bankstown Sports Stars

Padstow Hornets will be buzzing with confidence after securing their biggest win of the season last weekend, and they’ll be eager to make it three victories in a row as they host Bankstown Sports Stars—currently the only winless team in the competition—at Stuart Street Reserve.

In last season’s meetings, Padstow Hornets were clearly the dominant side, coming away with two convincing wins and a combined aggregate score of 8-1. One standout from those clashes was Michael Cklamovski, who netted four goals across the two fixtures and will undoubtedly be the player to watch again this weekend as the Hornets look to continue their strong run.

Sitting in 4th place, the Hornets hit their stride in Round 5 with a commanding 4-1 win over Greenacre Eagles. They opened the scoring in the first half thanks to Michael Cklamovski, before piling on three more goals in the first 25 minutes of the second half, courtesy of Daniel Gubbay, Tom Kovacs, and another from Cklamovski. It was a dominant display that showcased both their attacking depth and ability to control the game from start to finish.

Looking ahead to this weekend, Padstow Hornets will be aiming to keep their winning momentum going and will also be hoping to register their first clean sheet of the season. Facing a Bankstown Sports Stars side that has only managed to score once in the opening five rounds presents the perfect opportunity to do just that.

Meanwhile, 8th placed Bankstown Sports Stars endured their toughest outing of the season last weekend, going down 5-1 to the top-of-the-table Yagoona Lions. A slow start saw them concede three goals within the first 25 minutes, but to their credit, the Stars fought their way back into the contest and managed to score their first goal of the season through Michael Nicolas. Despite the scoreline, that moment of offensive breakthrough will give them a small boost heading into this weekend’s clash.

For Bankstown Sports Stars, the objective remains unchanged—they need to find a way to be more effective in front of goal. While their energy and defensive work rate have shown promise at times, converting their chances will be key if they are to pull off an upset and earn their first win of the season, especially against the reigning champions.

With Padstow Hornets chasing a third consecutive win and the Stars desperate to avoid a third straight defeat, both sides have plenty on the line.

After four rounds in the 2025 competition, two clubs have emerged as the early frontrunners, showing a clear advantage over the rest of the field, though the chasing pack remains tightly bunched. With the season still in its early stages, every match is crucial as teams look to establish their positions in the race for the top spots.

This weekend’s Round 5 Match of the Round will see Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat face off against Panania Diggers at Middleton Park.

Match of the Round: Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat vs Panania Diggers, Saturday 5^th April 4:00pm @ Middleton Park

2024 Meetings: Panania Diggers 3-2 Bankstown Sports Strikers, Bankstown Sports Strikers 0-3 Panania Diggers

Strikers Heat will be determined to climb off the bottom of the table this weekend as they host Panania Diggers, who are desperately seeking their first win since Round 2.

In their two encounters last season, Panania Diggers claimed victories over Strikers Heat, netting six goals in total. However, with Strikers looking significantly stronger defensively this season, Diggers will likely face a much more challenging opposition this time around.

Currently sitting in 8th place, Strikers Heat have had a difficult start to their 2025 BPL campaign, managing just one point so far. The team has been without several key players over the first four rounds, but the return of these players will be crucial as they look to climb the ladder.

In Round 4, Strikers gave the 2024 champions a tough battle. Despite going down 1-0 early in the match, Strikers managed to equalise in the 60th minute through Lucas Moura. However, the Hornets’ potent attack proved too much, and the match ended 2-1 in the Hornets’ favor.

Strikers Heat will be eager to pick up points this weekend to lift themselves from the bottom of the table. Given Panania’s recent struggles in front of goal, Strikers will aim to prevent them from scoring early and take advantage of any attacking opportunities to potentially cause an upset.

On the other hand, Panania Diggers, currently sitting in 3rd place, suffered a setback last weekend with a 4-1 defeat to the undefeated Padstow United, causing them to fall five points behind the top two teams in the competition. This loss marked the first time in 2025 that Panania had conceded four goals in a match, likely due to the absence of both their regular goalkeepers. They will be eager to welcome them back this weekend to strengthen their defence.

At this stage last season, Panania Diggers were still undefeated after four rounds and didn’t suffer their first loss until August 3rd. They haven’t experienced back-to-back losses since the 2023 season, and they will be determined to avoid consecutive defeats with a strong performance this weekend.

Despite their overall solid form, Panania has struggled in recent weeks, scoring just once in their last two matches. They will be hoping to find their attacking rhythm again and take all three points from Strikers Heat this weekend.

With Strikers Heat in desperate need of points and Panania looking to bounce back from a defeat and avoid back-to-back losses, this upcoming clash is shaping up to be more competitive than the current league standings might suggest. The game promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams fighting for different reasons but with equal urgency to secure a positive result.

Greenacre Eagles vs Padstow Hornets, Saturday 5^th April 4:00pm @ Allum Park

These two teams did not meet last season.

Greenacre Eagles will be aiming to bounce back this weekend as they face a tough challenge in the form of Padstow Hornets, who are hoping to secure back-to-back wins for the first time this season. This will be the first meeting between these two teams since 2023, and both sides will be keen to make an impact.

Currently sitting in 6th place, Greenacre Eagles were unable to pull off a major upset against league leaders Yagoona Lions last weekend, suffering a heavy 5-1 defeat. Despite holding their own in the first half, only trailing 1-0 at the break, the Eagles’ defence faltered in the second half against one of the most potent attacking teams in the competition. They conceded four goals in the final 35 minutes, which ultimately sealed their fate.

On a brighter note, Greenacre’s 2025 signing Ibrahim Kabia found the back of the net for the first time this season after his move from North Bankstown. This goal will give the Eagles hope that Kabia can continue to find form and become a key player for them moving forward.

On the other hand, Padstow Hornets, currently in 5th place, will be looking to build on their 2-1 victory over Bankstown Sports Strikers Hat last weekend as they strive for back-to-back wins for the first time this season. Both Mike Cklamovski and Matthew West scored their first goals of the campaign in that win, and they will be eager to maintain their scoring form as they head into this match.

Despite a somewhat rocky start to the 2025 season, the Hornets will be looking to tighten up their defence, as they have yet to keep a clean sheet this year. Defenders Tuhiwai Kennedy and Nathan Millgate will play a crucial role in helping the Hornets shore up their backline and replicate the defensive solidity they displayed in 2024, when they conceded just 24 goals throughout the entire season.

As newly promoted Greenacre Eagles take on the 2024 champions, Padstow Hornets, experience will likely play a key role in the outcome of this matchup. While the Eagles will be eager to cause an upset, the Hornets’ pedigree and depth of experience could prove crucial as they look to secure another vital three points.

Yagoona Lions vs Bankstown Sports Stars, Saturday 5^th April 4:00pm @ O’Neill Park

2024 Meetings: Yagoona Lions 4-1 Bankstown Sports Stars, Bankstown Sports Stars 2-4 Yagoona Lions

Yagoona Lions will be looking to extend their perfect start to the 2025 season and make it five wins from five as they face Bankstown Sports Stars, who are still searching for their first victory of the campaign.

In their 2024 encounters, goals came thick and fast, with a total of 11 goals scored across the two meetings. However, it was Yagoona who came out on top both times, completing the league double over Stars.

Currently sitting in 1st place, Yagoona Lions showed no signs of slowing down in Round 4, cruising to a 5-1 victory over Greenacre Eagles. This result marked their fourth consecutive win, each by a margin of three goals or more. Jamie Bazevski was the standout performer once again, scoring four goals in the second half to bring his tally to an impressive 10 goals in the first four rounds.

With such form, Yagoona will be brimming with confidence ahead of their first home game of the season at O’Neill Park. Despite a disappointing 2024 campaign by their usual high standards, Yagoona won 4 of their 6 home matches last season and will be eager to continue that strong record with a big performance in front of what is expected to be a large crowd.

On the other hand, Bankstown Sports Stars, currently in 7th place, have yet to pick up a win this season. In Round 4, they struggled to capitalise on their attacking opportunities against Central Sydney Wolves, suffering a 3-0 defeat. As a result, the Stars remain winless after four rounds.

Heading into this matchup with the league leaders, Bankstown will be fully aware of the threats posed by Yagoona’s potent attack and will likely place a strong emphasis on defence this weekend. The Stars have already shown their defensive capabilities, managing two clean sheets this season, and they will need to be at their best to contain Yagoona’s firepower.

Yagoona Lions will be determined to keep their perfect record intact and will be keen to maintain their lead at the top of the table, especially with Padstow United hot on their heels. However, Bankstown Sports Stars will be up for the challenge, hoping to pull off a surprise and spoil Yagoona’s winning streak. With both teams bringing different motivations to the match, this clash promises to be an exciting one.

Padstow United vs Central Sydney Wolves, Saturday 5^th April 4:00pm @ Playford Park

2024 Meetings: Padstow United 3-3 Central Sydney Wolves, Central Sydney Wolves 1-1 Padstow United

Padstow United, one of only two teams to have won all four of their games this season, will be aiming to make it five from five as they take on Central Sydney Wolves, who are coming off their first win of the 2025 season and are known for causing upsets.

The two teams faced off in 2024 with both matches ending in draws, each side earning a point in the process. Despite Padstow United finishing the season undefeated last year, the Wolves proved to be a difficult opponent for the champions, making this upcoming clash all the more intriguing.

Currently sitting in 2nd place, Padstow United showed their strength in Round 4 with an impressive 4-1 victory over 3rd placed Panania Diggers. The result highlighted their attacking depth, with four different players getting on the scoresheet. However, for the first time this season, Padstow conceded a goal, ending their perfect defensive record.

The team will be looking to maintain their momentum, especially with their first home game of the season at Playford Park. Last year, Padstow remained undefeated at home throughout the regular season, and they’ll be hoping to continue that streak and secure another vital win in front of their home supporters.

On the other hand, 4th placed Central Sydney Wolves will be coming into this match full of confidence after their 3-0 win over Bankstown Sports Stars on Friday night. 2024 Golden Boot winner Marvis Oyanoghafo was the standout performer, scoring a hat-trick and opening his goalscoring account for the 2025 season.

The Wolves have shown time and again over the last two seasons that they thrive in challenging matchups. Despite Padstow United’s dominance last year, the Wolves managed two draws against the 2024 Premiers, making them a team that Padstow will certainly not underestimate. The Wolves will be eager to challenge the league leaders once again and perhaps pull off an upset that could shake up the top of the table.

With both teams coming off significant wins in their previous matches, there’s plenty of anticipation surrounding this encounter. Padstow United will look to continue their perfect start to the season, while Central Sydney Wolves will aim to build on their first victory and prove they can once again be a thorn in the side of the top teams.

We’re three rounds into the 2025 Umbro BPL season, and every team has earned points on the board already. This marks a stark contrast to last season, where it took until Round 8 for every team to secure at least one point, highlighting the increased competitiveness in 2025.

This week’s Match of the Round sees Panania Diggers host Padstow United at Padstow Park as Panania Diggers will look to hand Padstow United their first loss of the season.

Match of the Round: Panania Diggers vs Padstow United, Saturday 29^th March 3:00pm @ Padstow Park

2024 Meetings: Panania Diggers 2-2 Padstow United, Padstow United 2-2 Panania Diggers, Padstow United 2-3 Panania Diggers (Finals)

Panania Diggers and Padstow United are among the three matches that have been moved to Padstow Park this weekend due to the expected heavy rain. This clash kicks off our thrilling Super Saturday lineup at Padstow Park.

Both teams had strong seasons in 2024, finishing 1st and 2nd in the regular season standings, and their head-to-head encounters last year showcased just how evenly matched they are. Both of their regular season meetings ended in 2-2 draws, with the rivalry reaching its peak in the Week 1 finals, where Panania Diggers triumphed 3-2 to secure a spot in the grand final.

Currently sitting in 3rd place, Panania Diggers were unable to secure back-to-back victories last weekend, as they played out a 0-0 draw with Bankstown Sports Stars despite dominating their encounters in the 2024 season. Several key players were missing for Panania in that match, and they will be hoping to have them back this weekend as they aim to bounce back against the undefeated Padstow United.

Panania Diggers struggled to break down Bankstown Sports Stars last weekend, and they now face an even more formidable defensive unit in Padstow United. Last season, Nicholas Vertsonis found the net twice against United, and his team will be hoping for a repeat performance from him if they are to become the first side to score against Padstow United this season.

Currently 5 points behind the top two teams after three rounds, Panania understands the importance of securing a win this weekend. Another loss or draw could see them fall 8 points behind the top two, potentially dropping out of the top spots after this weekend’s matches.

Padstow United, in 2nd place, have made a perfect start to the season, winning all three of their opening games. Last weekend, they edged out Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat 1-0, with John Martinez converting a penalty in the 81st minute. The defense has been rock solid, with three clean sheets in as many matches.

This weekend’s clash against Panania represents their toughest challenge yet, and they will be eager to prove themselves further. Padstow United will also be looking for some revenge after Panania handed them their first loss of the 2024 season in the Week 1 finals.

John Martinez has been the key player for Padstow United, scoring 6 goals in the opening three rounds, and he will be looking to add to his tally this weekend. However, the team will also be hoping to see Rafa Coutinho find his scoring touch, as he has yet to get on the scoreboard this season.

Padstow United will be aiming for their fourth consecutive win to start the season, while Panania Diggers are determined to put an end to their winning streak. Given how close their recent matchups have been, this promises to be another thrilling encounter in what is already shaping up to be an exciting season.

Central Sydney Wolves vs Bankstown Sports Stars, Friday 28^th March 7:30pm @ Padstow Park

2024 Meetings: Bankstown Sports Stars 1-3 Central Sydney Wolves, Central Sydney Wolves 3-3 Bankstown Sports Stars

Central Sydney Wolves and Bankstown Sports Stars will both be on the hunt for their first win of the season as they square off on Friday night at Padstow Park.

Their encounters last season were packed with excitement, with the Wolves claiming a 3-1 victory in their first meeting, while the second clash ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw. In both matches, Esoghume Dominic made his mark—scoring in both games, first for the Wolves and then for the Sports Stars. Dominic, still with Bankstown Sports Stars, will undoubtedly be motivated to find the back of the net again against his former team.

The Central Sydney Wolves are currently in 8th place after failing to secure their first win of the season in their home debut at Lockwood Park last weekend. They faced Greenacre Eagles, who took an early lead, but the Wolves battled back to level the score at 1-1 in the second half. However, Greenacre would score late, securing a 2-1 win.

The Wolves are currently at the bottom of the table and have conceded the most goals in the competition, with 8 goals against them so far. As they prepare to face the Bankstown Sports Stars, they will be hoping to shore up their defence, especially considering that the Stars have yet to score a goal this season.

Bankstown Sports Stars, in 6th place, managed a valuable 0-0 draw against last year’s grand finalists, Panania Diggers, despite missing several key players. This draw marked their second clean sheet of the season, which is a positive sign for the Stars’ defence. With 2 points on the board already, they will be keen to secure their first win of the season.

The Stars will also recognize the importance of finally breaking their scoring drought this week, and with the Wolves having conceded the most goals in the league, this match presents an excellent opportunity for Bankstown to capitalise.

Both teams are eager to end their winless runs to start the season and are fully aware of the significance of this clash. With both sides desperate to get their first win, this promises to be an exciting and competitive encounter.

Padstow Hornets vs Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat, Saturday 29^th March 5:00pm @ Padstow Park

2024 Meetings: Padstow Hornets 4-1 Bankstown Sports Strikers, Bankstown Sports Strikers 0-3 Padstow Hornets

Padstow Hornets and Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat will meet for the first time this season in a fixture that still carries significant history, especially considering their intense rivalry in the Grand Finals of both the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

Last season, the Hornets and Strikers only met once after the Strikers forfeited their Round 15 encounter. In their only meeting, the Hornets came out on top with a dominant 4-1 victory, highlighted by a stunning hat-trick from Manuel Angelopoulos.

Currently sitting in 4th place, Padstow Hornets suffered their first loss of the season last weekend in a 4-1 defeat to Yagoona Lions. Yagoona took control early, scoring three goals within the first 20 minutes, and although the Hornets fought back, they were unable to mount a comeback. This loss marked their heaviest defeat since Round 7 of the 2022 season, when they were beaten 3-0 by Greenacre Eagles.

Despite the setback, the Hornets will be encouraged by the return of star forward Mike Cklamovski, who featured in the loss to Yagoona. Cklamovski, who has scored an impressive 59 goals over the past three seasons for the Hornets, will be a crucial addition as they look to get back to winning ways this weekend.

Bankstown Sports Strikers Heat, currently in 7th place, have endured two consecutive losses, including a narrow 1-0 defeat to Padstow United. Despite their solid performance against the table-toppers, where they were only undone by a penalty in the 81st minute, the Strikers have struggled in front of goal. With no goals scored in two of their matches this season, they will need to improve their offensive output if they are to claim their first win of the season.

Both teams come into this match determined to bounce back from recent losses, and you can expect both sides to come out with a strong game plan as they chase down the crucial three points. With plenty of pride at stake, this encounter is set to be another thrilling chapter in their history.

Yagoona Lions vs Greenacre Eagles, Saturday 29^th March 7:00pm @ Padstow Park

These two teams did not meet last season.

Yagoona Lions are currently the form team of the competition and will be looking to extend their winning streak to four matches as they aim to stay at the top of the table when they face Greenacre Eagles, who secured their first win of the season last weekend.

Sitting in 1st place, Yagoona Lions made a bold statement last weekend by handing 2024 champions Padstow Hornets their heaviest loss since 2022, defeating them 4-1. The Lions started the match with an explosive performance, racing to a 3-0 lead within the first 20 minutes.

Their offensive power has been undeniable, having scored 12 goals in their opening three games, wreaking havoc on opposition defences. The familiar faces of Jamie Bazevski, Tom Markovski, and Paulo Alfredo were once again on the scoresheet in the Hornets’ defeat, with Bazevski netting a quickfire brace and Markovski and Alfredo each adding one. These three will undoubtedly look to maintain their fine form as Yagoona strives for another victory this weekend.

In 5th place, Greenacre Eagles showed their quality and proved why they deserved promotion this season with a solid 2-1 win over Central Sydney Wolves, handing them their second loss of the campaign. The hero for Greenacre was Heni Hallak, who came off the bench in the second half and netted the winning goal in the 85th minute. This result demonstrated Greenacre’s resilience and ability to handle pressure, and now they will face their toughest challenge yet as they take on the league-leading Yagoona Lions.

Greenacre Eagles will be without their captain, Omar Elmustapha, for this match, and they will need their younger players to step up in his absence if they are to pull off an upset against the high-flying Lions. With Yagoona winning every match so far by at least 3 goals, Greenacre will have their work cut out for them, but they’ll be determined to give a strong account of themselves.

With both teams coming off impressive victories in their previous matches, expect this to be an exciting clash. Yagoona will be looking to continue their dominant start to the season, while Greenacre will aim to prove they can compete with the league’s best. Both teams will be hoping to build momentum from their recent successes when they meet on the field.