Hakoah dream run continues as they prepare for FFA Cup

MACCABI Hakoah Football Club has kept the dream run alive, sealing the second-last spot in the Westfield FFA Cup with a 5-1 victory over Northern Tigers.

Hakoah players swarm a Northern Tigers player in torrential rain at Hensley Athletic Field.

MACCABI Hakoah Football Club has kept the dream run alive, sealing the second-last spot in the Westfield FFA Cup with a 5-1 victory over Northern Tigers.

The State League side again went in as underdogs, playing the higher-grade, Premier League division two side to clinch the sixth qualifying spot in muddy conditions at Hensley Athletic Field, Eastgardens, on Thursday.

The game was one-sided and epitomised a team effort, with five different players scoring to make it an early blowout.

Lloyd Owusu celebrates his goal against Northern Tigers.

Five different goalscorers from an inspired Hakoah side led by star striker Lloyd Owusu ensured the win early in the game.

Centre-back Nathan Bowden-Haase got the home side off to a strong start, heading a goal off a corner kick in the 17th minute.

The goal came as a result of relentless, full-field defensive pressure, one of many improvements Hakoah made after its loss to Blacktown City last round.

The shell-shocked Tigers conceded another goal just eight minutes later, with Deklan Gilmartin finding the back of the net.

Hakoah players swarm a Northern Tigers player in torrential rain at Hensley Athletic Field.

The second half was more closely matched as the Tigers found some form in the opposition’s half, but opportunities went unconverted and a handball in their own goal box sealed the deal.

Neil Jablonski stepped up to take a free kick, potting a sitter, while Owusu and Nathan Kosmina also scored second-half goals.

Coach Mark Robertson said the determination of his side was second to none.

“I was very proud of them ... we have some great history here and these boys deserve this victory tonight,” Robertson said.