Title showdown looms for Juniors

Words: ACFC Media

Wednesday 13 December 2017

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Auckland City FC's National Youth League title hopes received a major boost with the return of Justin Bailey from suspension ahead of Saturday's must-win game with Tasman United.

A win for Auckland City FC will see them lift the title with the competition tie-breaker settled by their superior head-to-head record with fellow championship hunting rivals Canterbury United.

But Canterbury United could still spoil the party if they can knock over Hawke's Bay United on Sunday should the Junior Navy Blues falter in any way.

Coach Aaron McFarland was upbeat ahead of the showdown with fifth placed Tasman United.

"The mentality is very positive because we know our destiny is in our own hands and we have a good record at home this season.

"Regardless of the position we find ourselves in we always focus on what we do and how we go about doing it - our playing process.

"It will be no different this week except that the team will have to manage underlying desires to win the league," he said.

Ends

Final Round of matches

Saturday 16 December
Team Wellington v Southern United
Kick-off 12pm

Auckland City FC v Tasman United
Kick-off 2pm

Sunday 17 December
Canterbury United v Hawke's Bay United
Kick-off: 11am

Waitakere United v Eastern Suburbs AFC
Kick-off: 1pm

Wellington Phoenix U-17 v Hamilton Wanderers
Kick-off: 2pm

National Youth League - Honours Board
2017 - Hamilton Wanderers
2016 - Team Wellington
2015 - Nelson-Marlborough Falcons
2014 - Auckland City FC
2013 - Auckland City FC
2012 - Canterbury United
2011 - Waitakere United
2010 - Canterbury United
2009 - Auckland City FC
2008 - Waitakere United
2007 - Auckland City FC
2006 - Capital Football
2005 - Capital Football
2004 - North Harbour
2003 - Capital Football
2002 - Auckland Football