Moreton Bay United stalwart Ryota Nakaooka is looking to further his team’s run of success against Blacktown City in Sydney on Saturday night.
Jets continue their quest for a third trophy of the 2015 campaign this Saturday night against the PlayStation 4 NPL New South Wales Premiers.
If the PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland Premiers-Champions Jets prevail, they will advance to face the winner of the Bayswater City and Olympia Warriors in the PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues Grand Final the following weekend.
Advancing to the Grand Final will be in no small part thanks to the contributions of Nakaooka, who has started every match this year in his second campaign with Jets.
The 26-year-old, who previously played for FC Osaka in Japan, said he had a feeling early in the year that his club would be in the hunt for silverware this season.
“This (National Premier Leagues Finals Series) run is surprising me, but I was feeling at the beginning of the season we had a chance to win the league or make the Grand Final.”
“I haven’t been in a national competition before. This is my first time. But I am not nervous at all - I’m enjoying this,” he added.
Blacktown City are widely considered as favourites for the clash on their home, artificial pitch, however Nakaooka suggested that may just play into Jets’ hands.
“Obviously we are not going to change a lot what we have been doing all year," he explained.
“Mostly we have been preparing our communication between defence, midfield and attackers. As usual, I think the wide areas will be important.”
A contingent of Jets supporters is expected to travel to Sydney for the clash and Nakaooka was mindful of the support they have provided the players this year.
“Reaching the final would be a way for us, the team, to thank our club, the fans and all the kids for their support this year,” he concluded.
PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues Semi Final
Blacktown City FC v Moreton Bay United FC
Saturday 26 September 2015
Lilys Football Stadium, Seven Hills
Kick-off at 7:30PM