Despite an early hurdle against Alamein, Bulleen's journey to the Nike FC Cup Final has been marked by clinical performances and professionalism. With their experience shining through, this Sunday could finally be the day Caitlin Friend's side lifts the elusive Cup!
Bulleen has faced heartbreak in the Final or penultimate match of the Cup in every edition since 2021. But after another impressive Cup run, could this be the Lions' best chance yet?
Round 4: Alamein (Away) - 1-2
Bulleen's 2024 Nike FC Cup journey began with a tricky match against fellow NPLW side Alamein at The Home of the Matildas. Despite being reduced to 10 players after a young defender was sent off, Bulleen held strong. A Lia Muldeary strike and a second-half Maja Markovski penalty secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
Round 5: Boroondara Eagles (Away) - 0-5
In Round 5, Bulleen faced the formidable Boroondara Eagles, who finished second on the NPLW ladder in 2023. Despite being the away side, Bulleen benefited from their co-residency at the Veneto Club and cruised to a 5-0 victory in front of a supportive home crowd. Lourdes Gonzalez scored twice, Nia Salleh also registered a brace, and Maja Markovski added a penalty goal.
Quarter-Finals: Ringwood City (Away) - 0-6
In the Quarter-Finals, Bulleen traveled to Jubilee Park to face VPLW outfit Ringwood City. The NPLW ladder leaders put the game beyond doubt early, with goals from Markovski (12', 26') and Alana Burn (17') within the first 20 minutes. Markovski completed her hat-trick, while Burn, Gonzalez, and Betti Michael also found the net, securing a 6-0 victory.
Semi-Finals: FV Emerging (Home) - 3-0
With their opponents already decided, Bulleen faced a talented FV Emerging side in the Semi-Finals. Former FV Emerging players Alana Cortellino and Mia Bulic stepped up against their old team, scoring the goals that propelled Bulleen to a 3-0 victory and into the Final for the second consecutive year.