Three Kings ready for semis
Three Kings United are eager to make history, being two wins away from holding the Chatham Cup.
For one thing, it would mean a chance to win New Zealand’s oldest and most prestigious winter club competition for the very first time. They came close in 2009 in the final but were disappointed by Wellington Olympic 2-1.
For the other - and the most important according to coach Neil Sykes - it would mean a lot for the four years of development of largely home grown players.
‘‘It would be very important for the club to achieve success with a team consisting of largely home produced players,’’ he says.
‘‘We have made great progress over the last four years, developing a number of home grown players and overseeing their progression into the premier team.
‘‘This season, the squad has played some excellent football at times and shown great character once again. However, the semifinal will be very challenging against such a strong opposition.’’
That comes in the form of Waitakere City FC at home, who have had a much better record in the competition than the Keith Hay Park-based team. Waitakere FC have won the Chatham Cup three times consecutively from 1994 to 1996.
‘‘We have watched them a number of times this season and they are an excellent side full of experienced players.’’
Three Kings have had an illustrious outing in the NRFL, being just four points behind leaders Central United.
Sykes says the side have consistently produced performances of high quality and come Sunday, they look forward to a victory.
‘‘Everyone is focused on a difficult semi against an in form Waitakere City side.
‘‘We have just been reinforcing table our philosophy and fine tuning areas that have been successful for us so far this season. Fortunately we are at near full strength and looking forward to the challenge.’’
The Three Kings Utd v Waitakere City FC semifinal match kicks off at 2pm on August 28, at Fred Taylor Park. 2015: Eastern Suburbs 2014: Cashmere Technical 2013: Cashmere Technical 2012: Central United
2011: Wairarapa United 2010: Miramar Rangers