Sydney United 58 have been given an added boost for its round 1 clash against rivals Marconi Stallions this Sunday following the return of club captain Adrian Vlastelica from his recent three-month spell with A-League Men’s side Sydney FC.
The 28-year-old defender was looking forward to leading his beloved United 58 side once more in what is set to be one of the most exciting NPL NSW Men’s seasons to date.
With 16 teams and 30 rounds scheduled, the tall-towering footballer was upbeat about the new changes to the competition.
“It’s exciting to begin the new season with the change in structure to the competition,” Vlastelica told Football NSW.
“It will mean that all teams need to start off on the right foot as there are no finals series which means clubs need to maintain a high level of consistency to compete for top spot – this has always been our expectation at United.
“Also, the added pressure of relegation returning this year will place a huge importance on all games across the competition.”
United 58, led by coach and father Miro, have added a few new faces to its squad which Vlastelica believes has boosted the team on a whole.
Bailey Rule, Jason Madonis, Hiyori Kawaguchi and Leroy Jennings are just some of the new names hoping to light up the BOKA Stand this year.
“We’ve added 5-6 new boys this year all with great individual quality and experience who have won things in this competition previously – so it’s added competition for places and depth in the squad which is going to be needed in the longer season.
“The new boys have brought energy to the changeroom and are ready to go.”
It’s going to be a hotly contested first round match-up for Vlastelica and co as they host the Marconi Stallions, a club also tipped to challenge for the Premiership this year at the Sydney United Sports Centre this Sunday.
It’s a clash the Reds club captain thrives on as he hopes his troops can commence the 2023 season on the right foot.
“It’s exciting to get going again.
“The boys are itching to get started.
“We know Marconi had a good year last year, so we are expecting a tough game as always and being a local derby there’s always added feel to it.
“Hopefully we are met with a good strong crowd to kick us off on the right foot for the 2023 season.”
Finally, asked how his Sydney FC experience was on a whole, Vlastelica said it was a fantastic experience to soak in and one he will not forget in a hurry.
“It was a fantastic experience and opportunity that came up on the back of the Australia Cup run last year.
“The level of professionalism and quality from all the coaching staff and players day in day out was unbelievable to be around and a massive learning opportunity for myself to improve my game.
“I want to wish the boys and the staff the best of luck for the rest of the A-League Men’s season.”