South West Firebirds’ hopes of back-to-back Night Series titles resting on Friday night Perth clash with UWA

The South West Firebirds’ bid for back-to-back Night Series championships is still alive despite a heavy defeat at the hands of some of the best young players in the State. The Firebirds lost 4-0 on Saturday night to the National Training Centre under-15s team, but still move through to the semifinals after their own win against Mandurah a week ago. They now face UWA in a clash that has already been marred by controversy, with the game shifted from Saturday night to an 8.30pm Friday kick-off by Football West. The winner of that clash will face either the NTC, or Perth heavyweights Sorrento FC in the final. Last year, both the Firebirds and their male counterparts the South West Phoenix won the Night Series preseason competitions. Meanwhile, the Phoenix are preparing for a regional third round Australia Cup clash against Football Margaret River. The tournament, which was formerly known as the FFA Cup has been rebranded to honour one of the country’s first ever football competitions. Amateur and semi-professional clubs from across the Country will play in the preliminary rounds for a chance to feature against some of Australia’s best players and clubs. Phoenix will enter Saturday’s meeting at Onside Sports Stadium as heavy favourites. Meanwhile, Busselton City FC will host Joondalup City Football Club on Sunday.