Chatham Cup Preview
Our Premier Men are in action in their first match of the Chatham Cup tomorrow against Manukau United! We spoke to Head Coach Chris Zoricich to preview the match!
WSAFC: We've drawn Manukau United, a tough fellow Northern League team. Last time we played them in the League, we won 1-0, does that result provide good momentum going into this week's game?
CZ: Once again we have been given another tough draw in our first Chatham Cup game this season. Even though we got a result last time we played v Manukau, it was a very poor quality game and I wouldn’t be reading too much into that as cup games are a different prospect with extra time potentially coming into play and the fact you don’t have the U20 ruling. Both teams have had indifferent results since our last meeting.
WSAFC: As focus turns to the Cup this week, just a quick word on the League. We are at the halfway point and currently sitting mid-table. What are your thoughts on the team's performances so far?
CZ: We haven’t played anywhere near our full potential yet and we will be looking at trying to hit some form sooner rather than later hopefully! The disruption of having no home venue and no fixed training venues has had an effect I think, but we have said we won’t let that be an excuse. As I said previously we are working hard to get everyone back in form as soon as possible and hopefully start to go on a little run of good performances and results. We’re hoping the return of some ex Springs players from US colleges can provide an injection of something to spark us into life!
WSAFC: A challenging weekend with a League match vs Hamilton Wanderers on Saturday followed by our Chatham Cup tie 48 hours later on Monday. How will you be managing the demands of two tough games in two days?
CZ: It’s not ideal but it is what is. Players have to look after their bodies in between the two games and I imagine rotation of the squad may have to happen.
WSAFC: What is your favourite Cup memory?
CZ: Winning the Cup with Central Utd FC in 2012 as Head Coach.
Come and support Chris and the team in what is shaping up to be an exciting match!
Western Springs AFC vs Manukau United FC
Chatham Cup
Monday 6th June 2022
Crum Park, Titirangi
Kick Off: 2:00pm
