Sydney FC and Mt Druitt Town Rangers set to battle for U20’s crown

A David vs Goliath showdown is set to bring plenty of action when Mt Druitt Town Rangers & Sydney FC meet at CommBank Stadium this Saturday, in the National Premier Leagues NSW Grade 20’s Grand Final.

After finishing the season with four wins from five, which earned them second spot on the ladder, Sydney FC will head into Saturday as slight favourites over Mt Druitt.

Firstly, their superior goal difference stands out. Included in that is a goals scored tally that reads 64. Eight more than their opponents.

However, when speaking to Football NSW this week, Sydney FC head coach, Matt Sim, believes the team’s strengths come from all over the park.

“We’ve got a lot of firepower in this group.

“There’s players out there who are exciting to watch. For example, someone like Zane Shriver, in midfield has been excellent and is still only 17.

“Quite a large number of our senior Academy players have played for the under 20s this year. So it’s been a collective effort which has been great.”

For Sim’s side, a major strength will come from squad members with top level experience.

Names such as Jaiden Kucharski, Adam Pavlesic and Oscar Priestman who have all featured in Steve Corica’s A-League Mens side will offer bucket loads of talent and composure, however, football games aren’t won on paper.

And if any side has the potential to knock off Sydney FC, it’s Mt Druitt Town Rangers.

Finishing just behind their opponents in third place, it’s been a season to remember for Can Ozdemir’s side.

“They’re a confident bunch of boys.

“They’ve backed themselves all season long and that’s shown in our results.”

Losing just three matches all season, Mt Druitt have flown through the finals, with their frontline continuing to find the back of the net throughout.

A standout victory against Premiers, Blacktown City has Ozdemir’s side high on confidence, which alongside their attacking threat, will prove key come Saturday.

“Our attack can be deadly.

“If we’re on song this weekend we’ll have more than enough to get the job done.

“The camaraderie amongst the boys has been fantastic. They’ll fight for everything, for the entirety of the ninety minutes, and beyond, if necessary.”

Match Details

Sydney FC vs Mt Druitt Town Rangers

Saturday, 27th August. CommBank Stadium, Parramatta

Kick off 2:30pm AEST