National Premier Leagues NSW to kick-off this weekend

A blockbuster Grand Final rematch highlights a thrilling opening round of the National Premier Leagues NSW this weekend. 

Reigning champions Manly United will be desperate to get off to a flyer when they play host to APIA Leichhardt at Cromer Park.

Paul Dee has returned to coach the club after 12 months off and will be hoping to continue the side's on-field success in 2018.

Manly still boast the majority of their championship-winning squad and have recruited former Jets and Wanderers defender Daniel Alessi for the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, APIA have also strengthened their squad with the signing of ex-Melbourne Victory striker George Howard and former Glory midfielder Howard Fondyke.

It promises to be a cracking encounter to kick off the new campaign.

Elsewhere, former NSL powerhouse Marconi Stallions have returned to the top flight and start the season with a home clash against Sydney United 58.

Marconi boast plenty of firepower with former Jets striker Sean Rooney, ex-Blacktown speedster James Andrew and Chilean Emmanuel Ponce on the books. 

Not to be outdone, Jason Culina's Sydney United have A-League experience in their squad with the likes of Shannon Cole and John Hall, while the prolific Patrick Antelmi boosts their attack.

Expect plenty of goals in this one.

In Wollongong, plenty of eyes will be focused on former J-League winner Takuya Nozawa as he makes his full debut for the Wolves against Blacktown City.

The ex-Kashima Antlers midfielder will link up with fellow Japanese import Yuzo Tashiro in attack in what looms as a potentially deadly strike force.

Blacktown have picked up ex-Jets midfielder Devante Clut and attacker Charles Mendy and will fancy their chances of an upset on the opening weekend.

NATIONAL PREMIER LEAGUES NSW – ROUND 1 FIXTURES

  • Manly United FC v APIA Leichhardt FC, 7:00pm Saturday at Cromer Park
  • Marconi Stallions FC v Sydney United 58 FC, 7:00pm Saturday at Marconi Stadium
  • Sydney FC v Hakoah Sydney City East FC, 7:45pm Saturday at Lambert Park
  • Sydney Olympic FC v Bonnyrigg White Eagles FC, 3:00pm Sunday at Belmore Sports Ground
  • Wollongong Wolves FC v Blacktown City FC, 3:00pm Sunday at WIN Stadium
  • Rockdale City Suns FC v Sutherland Sharks FC, 5:00pm Sunday at Ilinden Sports Centre