AUCKLAND, NZ - Auckland City FC’s Round 5 clash with Manukau United at Kiwitea Street arrives on what will be an emotional afternoon for the club and its community, following the passing of Nick Didovich, a Central United Life Member, former president, and a presence at the ground for more than sixty years.
10 April 2026
Vice-captain Adam Mitchell spoke on behalf of the squad ahead of the match:
“Our deepest condolences go out to the Didovich family. Terrible news hearing of Nick’s passing. This game is dedicated to the family and to Nick, who is a club legend.”
With both clubs set to honour Nick with black armbands, flags at half-mast, and a moment of silence before kick-off, the Navy Blues return home determined to produce a performance worthy of the occasion and to reset after a difficult Easter period.
Auckland City FC enter Round 5 searching for a response after three straight 1-0 defeats. Monday’s Dominion Derby loss to Auckland United added to a frustrating fortnight defined by narrow margins and missed opportunities.
Head Coach Rudy Mozr was clear post-match:
“You can play as well as you want, but if you don’t put your chances away, you don’t get points. Three games without a goal, that’s on us, and we need to solve it.”
Mitchell echoed that sentiment, emphasising belief in the team’s underlying performances:
“The past couple of games have been really tough for us. We’ve actually played some really good football, a bit unlucky, a few things haven’t gone our way, but the most important thing is we’re playing well, and the goals will come.”
This weekend offers a chance to reset, reconnect, and reassert the standards that define Auckland City at home.
Manukau United return to the Northern League after their 2023 relegation and are still searching for their first win of 2026.
Their campaign so far: Losses to Auckland FC, Fencibles, and East Coast Bays A first point of the season on Monday: a 1-1 draw with Bay Olympic
City have historically controlled this fixture, six wins from seven, but Mitchell expects a refreshed challenge:
“We’ve played Manukau a lot over the years. They’re newly promoted again with lots of new players. Back at Kiwitea Street, it’s time we really need points and need to win games. We’ll give it 100%.”
Mitchell underlined the group’s mindset heading into the match:
“We know how important this game is for the table, for our confidence, and for everyone coming to support us. We’re ready to step up.”
With both sides near the foot of the early table, Round 5 becomes a crucial moment for momentum.
Head-to-Head (7 matches): City 6 • Draws 1
The players know the performance must match the occasion.
The Young Navy Blues opened the season with two strong wins but hit a bump over Easter with back-to-back defeats.
Like the senior side, they’ll view today as a chance to reset and rebuild momentum.
They host Manukau United U23 at 11:30am at the Croatian Club, a fixture that offers the perfect opportunity to set the tone for the club’s matchday.
Ends
AC SQUAD: 1. Nathan GARROW (GK) 2. Mario ILICH (C) 3. Adam MITCHELL 5. Nathan ROSTRON 6. Kieran RICHARDS, 7. Michal DOUDERA 8. Gerard GARRIGA 9. Angus KILKOLLY 10. Dylan MANICKUM 11. Ryan DE VRIES 12. Regont MURATI 13. Shaan ANAND 14. Nico ZAMBRANO 15. Jeremy FOO 18. Ari PRASAD (GK) 19. Dylan CONNOLLY, 21. Adam Kanui BELL 22. Tong ZHOU 23. Alfie ROGERS 24. Seba CIGANDA (GK) 26. Kian SHAHBAZPOUR 27. Tom GOLDING
HEAD COACH : Rudy MOZR
ASSISTANT COACH: Ivan VICELICH
ASSISTANT COACH: Alan SHAKER
GOALKEEPER COACH: Adam BANNISTER
TRAINER: Karlo PAVIC
PHYSIO: Matt PAYNE
TEAM MANAGER: Keith COTON
