Toowoomba clubs look forward to FFA Cup campaign
FOOTBALL: The magic of the FFA Cup is alive in Toowoomba.
Five Toowoomba Football League teams – Gatton, Rockville, West Wanderers, Willowburn and USQ FC – will lace up in their boots in the national knockout competition.
More than 70 teams feature in round two of the South East Queensland division and somehow against all odds, two TFL teams will face off for the second straight year.
“I don’t know how, but we managed to draw Gatton for a second straight year,” Willowburn president Gerard Alchin said.
“Obviously we would’ve liked to face a team outside our competition, but we’re under no illusions about Gatton.
“They’ll be up for it and keen to knock us out to advance just as much as us.”
Despite the “unlucky” draw, Alchin is still a cup fan.
“The new format is great,” he said.
“Giving teams the chance to face other clubs from around the south east, rather than just playing locally and facing the Thunder, is great for the game.
“Having the opportunity to play different teams helps to grow and strengthen the game regionally.”
The club’s FFA Cup clash adds to a packed schedule which includes TFL, Brisbane and Toowoomba cup competition commitments.
“It’s happening on all fronts for us from the junior level right through to seniors,” Alchin said.
“It is not without its challenges, but we’ve always approached things from a whole-of-club view.
“We have a vision and a well laid out plan – that helps because when people think about joining the club they can clearly see what we are about.
“They can then make the decision about if they want to get on board.
“Everyone at the club is committed to that vision which makes things a little easier.”