Nikas loving the ‘underdog’ tag

Panni Nikas takes part in his fourth Waratah Cup final on Sunday afternoon, his first in Sydney United 58 colours.
He has two Cup titles to his name from his time with the Sutherland Sharks and is eager to increase his medal tally with United against Blacktown City.

“I’ve been involved in three finals, winning two and losing one, I want to add another.

“Winning the Cup will be a good stepping stone for us to achieve a good result in the Westfield FFA Cup.

“We want to enjoy the game after the tough schedule we have had and use it as a confidence booster ahead of the PS4 NPL finals series.”

Sydney United 58 FC has a rich history with a trophy cabinet full of silverware. Their ever faithful fans have been there through thick and thin and Nikas says that the trophy would be massive for them as well.

“The way we’ve conducted our performances of late, we owe the club and the fans.

“We haven’t been up to our level but we’re working hard to rectify that and give the fans that have been there week in week out the Waratah Cup they deserve.”

United has moved into the Round of 32 in the Westfield FFA Cup for the second consecutive year after a famous match last season against Sydney FC.

To get to where they have wasn’t easy, in particular after their first match win against the APIA Leichhardt Tigers and unfortunate injury to start midfielder Nick Stavroulakis.

“We want to progress as far as we can and enjoy the moment, depending on who we draw, we go from there.

“Everyone has worked hard to get here and after Stav’s injury, the Cup has become symbolic for us.

“As shown by last years spectacle, whoever we draw we will perform to our best and do right by Sydney United 58 FC.”

Nikas believes that there isn’t one player in the league that can flip a game on their own accord but rather leaves it to the team.

“We have an array of talent but for an individual to shine, it’s important for the team to work collectively.

“If we work hard as a team then myself, Stjepan Paric, Chris Triantis and others can make a difference.

“I’m of the belief that not one player in this league can turn a game on their own.”

Nikas knows the quality that Blacktown City possess ahead of Sundays final.

“They have a few good players in all areas.

“They are the benchmark of the competition and are in another final, collectively they’re a good side.”

The United play maker understands that City may be the favourite in many punters eyes but that doesn’t faze him.

“Most people will go into that game predicting they will win but we know what we can do to prevent that.

“ We just want to enjoy the game and if we do, the quality will shine.”

– By Nikola Pozder