Throughout the 2025 NPLM season, we will be shining a spotlight on one Match of the Round each week, bringing you key matchups, in-depth previews, and all the action as it unfolds on match day.
The 2025 NPLM Round 3 Match of the Round promises to be a thrilling encounter as two cross-town rivals go head-to-head. Dandenong Thunder FC host Dandenong City FC at George Andrews Reserve, with both teams eager to secure crucial points early in the season.
Preview
Saturday, February 22, 7:00PM
George Andrews Reserve
The Dandenong Derby has quickly become a marquee fixture in Victorian football, growing in stature since Dandenong City's arrival in the top flight. While both clubs proudly represent their Albanian and Croatian communities, this rivalry extends beyond heritage—it’s a true reflection of the Greater Dandenong footballing landscape, with many players having developed their craft in the region.
Despite City’s rise in recent years, one challenge remains—defeating Thunder in a competitive Football Victoria-sanctioned match. Thunder have held the upper hand in the Derby, winning both encounters last season with a 2-1 triumph in Round 3 and a gritty 1-0 victory in Round 19.
As the two sides prepare to face off in Round 3 of the 2025 season, City will be eager to break their Derby drought, while Thunder will look to maintain their dominance. With Thunder on three points and City with two draws from their opening fixtures, both teams will be searching for momentum in this highly anticipated showdown.
Head-to-Head Record
Total Matches Played: 14
Dandenong Thunder Wins: 9
Dandenong City Wins: 0
Draws: 5
2024 Season Meetings
Played: 2
Dandenong Thunder Wins: 2
Dandenong City Wins: 0
Draws: 0
Last Time They Met
Round 19, Saturday, June 22 2024
Dandenong Thunder 1 (Kirdar 62')
Dandenong City 0
Referee: Adam Bavcar
Dandenong Thunder Lineup:
John Hall, Stefan Brecevic (Brady Quinn 72), Jacob Alexander, Jack Webster, Kenjok Athiu, Valli Cesnik (Seb Hernando 79), Danny Kim, Thomas Giannakopoulos, James Xydias (Michael Martinovic 72), Timothy Atherinos, George Lambadaridis (Damian Iaconis 79); Coach: Nick Tolios; Cautions: Cesnik 58, Webster 90+3, Hernando 90+3.
Coach: Adam Piddick;
Dandenong City Lineup:
John Hall, Stefan Brecevic (Brady Quinn 72), Jacob Alexander, Jack Webster, Kenjok Athiu, Valli Cesnik (Seb Hernando 79), Danny Kim, Thomas Giannakopoulos, James Xydias (Michael Martinovic 72), Timothy Atherinos, George Lambadaridis (Damian Iaconis 79);
Coach: Nick Tolios
Watch their 2024 Round 19 Match
Key Matchup: King Kenny v Key Recruits
Dandenong City striker Kenny Athiu has made an early impact this season, scoring in his side’s 3-3 draw with St Albans in Round 1. If City are to secure their first win of the season, Athiu’s influence in attack will be key, alongside fellow forward Tim Atherinos, who has also shown promise in the opening rounds.
Meanwhile, Dandenong Thunder focused on strengthening their defence in the off-season, and it’s already paying off. They currently have one of the best defensive records in the competition after two rounds, thanks in part to Dutch centre-back Thijs van Amerongen, who has been a steady presence at the back.
Thunder also welcomed experienced goalkeeper Jamie Young just before the season kicked off. The former A-League shot-stopper brings plenty of experience to the squad and will play an important role in keeping City’s attack at bay in this highly anticipated local clash.
Where to Watch
The 2025 NPLM Round 3 Match of the Round will be broadcast live and free on the NPL Victoria YouTube Channel.
Commentators: Oscar Rutherford & Brent Sternberg