The 2025 Dockerty Cup is here, with Round 1 set to begin this evening. A host of matches will take place across the opening round, as clubs from all corners of Victoria battle it out for a chance to progress to the next stage, which also serves as qualification for the Hahn Australia Cup.
One of the most exciting features of this year’s competition is the return of the State League Cup, which will see the best-performing Men’s State League teams competing for silverware. The State League Cup, last contested in 2003 when Caroline Springs George Cross triumphed over Casey Comets in a dramatic penalty shootout, will add an extra layer of intensity to the Cup this year.
Football Victoria Executive Manager - Football Operations, Dan Birrell said the Dockerty Cup is always a great way to kick off the season, and the return of the State League Cup adds a new element this year.
"It’s a fantastic opportunity for clubs to make a strong start and set the tone for the rest of the competition.”
Dockerty Cup opening day will witness a true Battle of the West between Point Cook and West Point. Point Cook are smarting from a relegation season that witnessed just a handful of wins, but two of those came in the centenary edition of the Cup before they fell to Altona City in the fourth round. The Jets will be looking to impress against fellow State 4 outfit West Point, who enjoyed a second-round win over Barnstoneworth United before succumbing to Sunbury United in Round 3 in 2024.
Laverton and Ashburton United return to HD Graham Reserve, the scene of a thrilling third-round encounter between the two State 3 sides which resulted in a 4-3 win to the visitors thanks to a brace from Christopher Pascal-Therios.
Hoppers Crossing had a wonderful run in 2024, storming their way to the sixth round after wins against Whittlesea Ranges, Brimbank Stallions and the Western Eagles. They travel to Partingtons Flat, where Diamond Valley United will be hoping to improve upon their second-round exit in extra-time to former VPL Grand Finalists, Frankston Pines.