DEE Why midfielder Dan Talbot is happy for his team to adopt the underdog tag versus Brookvale ahead of Sunday’s round one of the MWFA FA Cup at Cromer Park.
The Swans have gone about their business quietly all pre-season, while the Blues are looking to improve on their 2016 disaster in the MWFA Premier League, which saw them narrowly avoid relegation.
Brookie have recruited Narrabeen duo Justin Hayward and Josh Lawson, but won’t be able to call on the services of classy midfielder Dan Grant, who will miss the entire season with a knee injury.
Talbot revealed his squad from Dee Why Oval were keen for an easier game first up, but welcome the challenge.
“It wasn’t the draw we wanted, but we move on,” he said ahead of the early 10am start.
“We will send out a semi-decent team, but our focus is starting well in the league.
“The Cup is the perfect chance for us to blood a few youngsters against a quality team like Brookvale, the lads will be buzzing.”
Other games see Harbord Seasiders United take on Pittwater RSL FC (10am), Narrabeen do battle with Wakehurst (10am), Manly Vale lock horns with Forest Killarney (12pm) and Seaforth line up against CC Strikers (12pm).
Also at 12pm is Mosman v Manly Allambie and at 2pm Beacon Hill play cup holders St Augustine’s and Curl Curl face an early test against Avalon.