The semi-finals of the Nike F.C Cup kick off on July 10 and 11 as the battle to crown the cup’s seventh champion hots up.
In the first semi-final, Box Hill United SC takes on Melbourne University SC at CB Smith Reserve at 7.30pm. United are favourites to progress to the final as Melbourne University is the only 2019 semi-finalist outside the WNPL.
But the fairytale run has seen Uni comprehensively win its first three cup ties, scoring 12 goals in the process and conceding none. Melbourne University is also seeking revenge for its loss in extra time to Box Hill in last year’s cup quarter finals.
Box Hill has some form of its own. Even though it sits sixth on the WNPL ladder, United is one of only two teams to defeat current WNPL leaders Calder United so far this season.
The second semi-final pits Heidelberg United SC against WNPL trailblazers Calder United SC at Wembley Park at 7.30pm.
Top of the WNPL table and seeking a hat-trick of Nike F.C Cup trophies, Calder United has also been in red hot scoring form, netting 18 goals in its three cup ties and conceding a meagre two.
Any side boasting reigning golden boot winner Catherine Zimmermann will be hard to stop.
But Heidelberg United tasted cup glory in 2016 and knows how to go all the way. The Warriors have not conceded a goal en-route to the final four and scored 16 themselves.
Indeed, Heidelberg considered itself unlucky to not get a result against Calder losing by just one goal in their first WNPL clash this season.
Victoria’s Women’s State Knockout Cup was first contested in 2012, giving female teams from across the state the chance to compete against each other in a knockout format. Past winners are:
- 2018 - Calder United SC
- 2017 - Calder United SC
- 2016 - Heidelberg United FC
- 2015 - Boroondara Eagles FC
- 2014 - FC Bulleen Lions
- 2013 - Sandringham SC
- 2012 - Box Hill United FC