Top 3 NPL clashes this weekend

Plenty of ex-Hyundai A-League talent and the best from the NPLs will be on show this weekend across Australia.

Here are three big games to watch out for.

QUEENSLAND

Brisbane Roar Youth v Olympic FC

It’s a huge top four battle on Saturday night as Roar hosts league-leaders Olympic FC at Logan Metro Sports Complex.

Olympic have enjoyed a dream start to the campaign, unbeaten after seven games to sit two points clear at the top of the Queensland NPL.

But Roar have also made a solid start to the campaign, sitting fourth and just three points behind Olympic, despite a loss to Brisbane Strikers last weekend.

It will be an extra special occasion for Olympic defender Shane Stefanutto, who not only won three Hyundai A-League titles with Roar but is also currently the club’s media manager.

NSW

Marconi Stallions v APIA Leichhardt Tigers

It’s been a strong start to the campaign for newly-promoted Marconi, who have picked up a draw and win from their opening two games of the season.

But they will face their sternest test yet against last season’s Premiers who have made a blistering start again in 2018.

Both sides are stacked with former Hyundai A-League stars, with the likes of ex-Wanderers players Mateo Poljak and Michael Beauchamp in the Marconi squad, while APIA boast former Melbourne Victory youngster George Howard and keeper Ivan Necevski.

As two former NSL clubs, these two have been involved in some cracking contests over the years and this should be another ripper at Marconi Stadium.

*The match will be streamed live on the NSW NPL Facebook page.

VICTORIA

Pascoe Vale v Heidelberg United

It’s fourth v third in Victoria as surprise packets Pascoe Vale host perennial powerhouses Heidelberg host at CB Smith Reserve.

Heidelberg have made the perfect start to 2018, winning all three matches played so far [they have a game in hand on the top two Avondale and Bentleigh Greens].

But Pascoe Vale, who drew 2-2 with South Melbourne last weekend, will be up for the challenge at home.

In Davey van ‘t Schip they have a player in superb form, with four goals from as many games so far this season.