Sharpshooter Ortiz ready for Saturday’s battle

After scoring his 20th goal of the season in APIA Leichhardt FC’s Semi-Final victory over Marconi Stallions, we spoke to Presley Ortiz ahead of their Grand Final this Saturday evening.

Ortiz scored APIA’s second in their 2-0 win against their rivals, with the striker passing home the ball after some trademark clever movement in the box.

“Scoring the second goal and helping the team get over the line in such an important match was an unbelievable feeling,” Ortiz said.

“We’ve worked so hard all season, and to see it pay off like that in front of our fans with a spot in the final on the line, it was a special moment.”

APIA will be taking on rivals Rockdale Ilinden in the Grand Final, who will be looking to rebound from 2024, where they fell at the final hurdle to Marconi.

However, APIA will come into this match the more confident side, having defeated Rockdale in both of their matches this season – first 4-3 at home, and then 4-1 away, with Ortiz netting in the earlier match.

“Rockdale are a quality side,” he said.

“They’ve shown consistency all year and have threats all over the pitch.

“We know it’s going to be a tough battle, but I’m confident in our group and what we bring.

“We respect them, but we know we’ve got a job to do.”

Expectantly, Ortiz and his teammates are approaching this Grand Final with the utmost determination to bring home the trophy, particularly considering the famous Italian club have not made the big dance since 2019.

“It would mean everything,” said Ortiz.

“This club, the fans, the staff – they all deserve it, and we’ll be doing everything we can to make it happen.”

APIA and Rockdale will face off at 6pm at Jubilee Stadium on Saturday, with the match also available live and free on Football NSW’s YouTube Channel.