They've been lifting trophies for the best part of 70 years but Moreland Zebras could conquer a new frontier in the FFA Cup 2019 Round of 32.
The Zebras already have a rich history, the pinnacle of which saw them crowned champions of Australia in 1985, but the Northern Melbourne club have endured a slight fall from those lofty heights.
Now competing in National Premier Leagues Victoria 2, the club that can boast previous stars such as Caltex Socceroos Marc Bresciano, Danny Tiatto and Andrew Nabbout will compete on the FFA Cup national stage for the first time when the travel to face local rivals Bulleen Lions in the Round of 32.
Proud of their trophy-laden roots and philosophy to develop young players, head coach and former Caltex Socceroo Fausto De Amicis' side will be determined to deliver in the club's biggest moment since winning the Victoria State League Divison 1 title in 2011 and sealing their return to the NPL.
Profile
Founded: 1948
Competition: National Premier Leagues Victoria 2 West
Home ground: CB Smith Reserve, Fawkner, Victoria
Honours: National Soccer League Champions: 1985
National Soccer League Southern Division Champions: 1985
National Soccer League Southern Division Minor Premiers: 1986
Victorian Champions: 11, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1958, 1970, 1991, 1998, 2004, 2011
Victorian Runners-Up: 8, 1962, 1967, 1969, 1989, 1990, 1992, 1997, 2007
Dockerty Cup: 5, 1960, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1977
History
Formed in 1948 as Brunswick Juventus by a group of Italian migrants, the club quickly become the dominant force in Victorian football, filling their trophy cabinet in the 1950s by winning six state titles.
They declined entry to the National Soccer League in 1977 but finally joined up in 1984 and, as Brunswick United Juventus, delivered their greatest achievement the following year, winning the 1985 NSL championship with a 2-0 grand final victory against Sydney City over two legs.
A sprinkling of state titles arrived over the following years before a series of mergers from 1997 saw the club become Bulleen Zebras, Whittlesea Zebras and finally Moreland Zebras in 2011.
Moreland Zebras line up to face Northcote City.
Key Players
Thomas Barforosh could well be the man providing the ammunition. The instinctive striker is leading the club's scoring charts this season with nine goals as of Monday 15 July. He also netted the crucial goal which put Moreland in the Round of 32 from long range in the 1-0 win against Altona Magic.
Nicolas Niagioran has helped fire the Zebras to second in the West with seven goals a goalkeeper Jack West-Astuti will be relied upon to step up on the big stage.
Round of 32 Match Details
Bulleen Lions v Moreland Zebras
Date: Wednesday, 24 July 2019
Venue: David Barro Stadium
Kick-off: 7:30pm AEST