FFA Cup: FC Bulleen Lions to host Moreland Zebras in round of 32

FC Bulleen Lions reach the last 32 of Australia’s nationwide knockout competition — the FFA Cup

FC Bulleen Lions are onto the biggest stage

FC Bulleen Lions have qualified for the round of 32 in Australia’s nationwide knockout competition, the FFA Cup.

A recent seventh-round win over the Saint Albans Saints at the Veneto Club qualified the NPLV 2 East club for the national stage.

An early goal from Ben Everson, in just the third minute, followed by a header in the fifth minute from Eli Luttmer had the Lions in a strong position.

St Albans scored in the 82nd minute, increasing the home team’s nervousness, but Bulleen sealed the win with a Josh Knight goal in the fourth minute of injury time.

“It’s a great achievement for the team as it’s the first ever qualification for this stage of the competition for Bulleen,” Luttmer said.

“After being involved with this club for seven years, it’s really something special for everyone involved with the Bulleen Lions.”

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FC Bulleen Lions’ Eli Luttmer (left) Picture: Andy Brownbill

The round of 32 draw was held last week and Bulleen was handed a tough assignment against former NSL powerhouse Morland Zebras on Wednesday, July 24 at the Veneto Club.

“The team has been working extremely hard this season to be the best we can be without looking at anyone else and to make everyone proud,” coach John Maisano said. “Bulleen deserves to be on the national stage and we are extremely happy that we have been able to achieve this so far.

“I am very proud of what my boys are achieving on the park and proud to be part of a very supportive and ambitious team off the park who work tirelessly behind the scenes to give this great club every possible chance.

“Moreland Zebras are doing fantastically well and we are all excited at the prospect of hosting them at the Veneto Club.

“I could not have asked for a more exciting draw. It will be an incredible spectacle and it will showcase two great teams battling it out. A real cup final.”

The Zebras qualified for the round of 32 after a 1-0 win over Altona Magic at Paisley Park.

FC Bulleen Lions celebrate a goal Picture: Stephen Harman