Hume City into the FFA Cup Round of 16 for the third time in four attempts

Hume City continued its remarkable FFA Cup record, reaching the Round of 16 for the third time in four attempts after easing past Cooma Tigers in freezing Canberra.

Hume City celebrates its FFA Cup win over Tigers FC.

Hume City progressed to the FFA Cup Round of 16 after a clinical performance on the road on Wednesday night.

First-half strikes from Mark Ochieng and Ben Bowler were enough to see City past Capital Football leaders Cooma Tigers in Canberra.

It’s the third time City has reached the Round of 16, having previously progressed in 2015 and 2016.

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The NPL club join NPL2 West high-flyers Moreland Zebras in the next round with fellow NPL qualifier Melbourne Knights to face Cup holders Adelaide United on Wednesday, August 7.

City coach Nick Hegarty was proud of his players’ achievement.

“It was a good performance by the boys, it’s always hard to travel and get away from your normal routine,” he said.

Hume City celebrates its win in the FFA Cup Round of 32.

Mark Ochieng celebrates his goal against Tigers FC.

“Full credit to the boys for their endeavour and performance and we’re rapt to get through to the next round.

“We moved the ball around well all game and maybe should have had more for the chances we created.”

Ochieng opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a precise finish after being set up by a delightful backheel from striker James Brown.

Bowler doubled City’s advantage in the 32nd minute with his long-range strike deflected into the top corner.

Hume City controlled the game in the second half and Michael Weier picked up a much-needed clean sheet.

“We kept the ball for long periods and made sure we were in control, rather than give them an opportunity,” Hegarty said.

Ben Bowler sizes up the shot for Hume City.

Marko Delic in action for Hume City.

“From what we’d been told, that’s how they went about it, very direct and very high intensity.

“They created a couple of chances through their pressure and making us turn it over and on another day they could have got a goal.”

City flew back to Melbourne on Thursday morning before a quick training run.

The team faces a three-day turnaround before facing Green Gully in an NPL fourth v fifth blockbuster at Broadmeadows Valley Park on Saturday.

Hegarty had just one wish for the Round of 32 draw.

“We just don’t want the other Victorian teams. As long as we stay away from them, we don’t really care,” he said.

“When you’re on the national stage you want to make sure you’re travelling or play someone you haven’t played.”