Melbourne Knights match-winner Stipo Andrijasevic believes the club's Westfield FFA Cup disappointment of 2014 was a key factor in their 2-1 win over Cockburn City.
In 2014, the Knights went to Queensland only to lose 3-1 to Olympic FC, but their second appearance in the FFA Cup Round of 32 ended in more positive circumstances on Wednesday night.
After Cockburn City midfielder David Araya cancelled out Jacob Colosimo's opener just before half-time, Andrijasevic smashed home the winner at Knights Stadium with 20 minutes remaining.
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The 22-year-old winger, who is set for a trial with Wellington Phoenix next week, was one of a number of players involved against Cockburn City, who also played in the loss to Olympic.
"We were fortunate enough to play a couple of years ago but unfortunately the result didn't go our way there, so to come back two years later and get the winning goal, it's an amazing feeling," Andrijasevic told Goal Australia.
"But most importantly the team have gotten through. We're through to the Round of 16. We set out to do that as soon as we knew we were in the cup and couldn't be happier for the boys."
Andrijasevic also underlined the importance of a win on the national stage for the former NSL club.
"Melbourne Knights pride ourselves on playing in these big games, we're one of the biggest clubs in Australia," he said.
"So to be back on this stage we couldn't be happier."
The former Melbourne Heart youth player was lively throughout the match at Knights Stadium and will fly to New Zealand on Monday for a week's trial on the back of a match-winning goal.
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"It's a massive confidence booster," Andrijasevic said.
"You know, I thought I played quite well and so did the boys. Can't wait [for the trial] and hopefully it all goes to plan."
