Heidelberg United star Jack Petrie says their memorable 2-0 win over Sydney United in Wednesday night's Westfield FFA Cup Round of 16 has super-charged the long-term aims of the ambitious Melbourne club.
Goals at the start and end of the entertaining encounter were enough for them to progress into the Westfield FFA Cup quarter finals after defeating Sydney United 2-0 at the Olympic Village stadium on Wednesday night.
An incredible start with the fastest ever FFA Cup scored by prolific Dan Heffernan after just 26 seconds put Heidelberg in the box seat. Reuben Way’s cross directed home by the Central Coast target to give the home side a clear advantage.
Heidelberg sub Kenny Athiu ended Sydney United’s resistance in the final few minutes by poking the ball over the line to send the home fans into delirium.
“We executed our game plan effectively but in saying that it helps when you score in the first minute. It takes the pressure off and you can play with a bit more freedom,” Petrie, who shone for Heidelberg, told www.theffacup.com.au after the game.
“This is huge," he added.
“It’s a massive step forward in a master plan for the club over the next five years or so.
"The guys behind the scenes at our club have been working overtime, the effort they’ve put in over the last month has been epic.
“So congratulations has to go to them. They put a fantastic event on tonight as 2500 fans attended.
“It’s a fantastic, community based club with fantastic committee and volunteers.
"I’ve been here two years and it’s a fantastic organisation to be a part of."
FFA Cup wrap: Adelaide, Heidelberg progress
Heidelberg now go into the FFA Cup quarter finals. Another chance for the club to show the nation what it can do on and off the field awaits.
And Petrie, who scored a screamer of a goal in the Round of 32, was happy with PS4 NPL or A-League opposition.
“Football’s a funny game, but whoever we get we’ll face them head on," he added.
"That said it’d be great another NPL club in the quarters, get past them then draw an A-League team in the semi finals.
“We'll give it our best shot... who knows what the future holds.”
