FFA Cup embraces football's family

We had waited long enough, and finally it arrived. The FFA Cup Round of 32 got underway on Tuesday night.

Clubs across the country competed in state knockout competitions to reach the round of 32 of the FFA Cup.

It would bring together local federation clubs and A-League clubs for the first time since Australia’s premier league was founded 10 years ago.

Opening night would see goals, fairy tales and nostalgic feelings as the FFA Cup finally embarked on its journey to the final on December 16.

Past supporters, some disenfranchised with the FFA and its lack of recognition for the old National Soccer League, lauded the competition as their clubs were able to feature on a national scale once again.

Broadmeadow Magic versus Brisbane Strikers was the game of choice for the telecast, it brought a return to suburban grounds and clubs steeped in football history.

The Strikers were past NSL champions and finalists on four occasions. The Magic were founded by Macedonian immigrants in 1966 and seven-time National Premier Leagues Northern NSW champions.

Broadmeadow would push their more fancied opponents, but would ultimately fall 2-1 during extra time. Then in Victoria, South Springvale would continue their fairytale by defeating South Cardiff 4-3 on penalties.

Melbourne Knights and Olympic FC would face each other as two of many ex-NSL teams that had been frozen out of top tier football since the A-League’s inception in 2004.

The contest between Knights and Olympic would draw 2,195 through the gates, while the remaining three fixtures all had crowds above 1,400.

Crowds should increase over time as coverage builds, interest grows and games return to weekend fixtures.

Fox Sports coverage of the Cup was perfect from Magic Park. Their ability to show goals mid-game from other grounds was terrific, correspondents on the ground reporting each match capped off the coverage.

Amidst all the nostalgic feeling and excitement of the competition, there was some great football on hand.

Extra time, penalties and late goals showcased everything a knockout cup competition brings to the table.

From crowds to football and broadcasting, it couldn’t have been a better start for the FFA.

Next week will see the introduction of the first batch of A-League teams with Newcastle Jets, Adelaide United and Wellington Phoenix getting their first taste of FFA Cup action.

There is still work to be done for the FFA and uniting the local federation clubs, the introduction of the FFA Cup is a step in the right direction.

Football in Australia needed a cup competition, so did the FFA, it was time to give something back to clubs which had helped build the sport in this country.

The FFA Cup finally arrived, and it had embraced the entire footballing family.