Former Socceroo and Hyundai A-League star midfielder Steve Corica tips high-octane South Hobart FC side to surprise a few people in the upcoming Westfield FFA Cup round of 32.
Corica was a recent guest player of Tasmanian club Tilford Zebras, who signed the former Sydney FC star as a one-off marquee for the Lakoseljac Cup final clash with South Hobart.
However, the Zebras conceded after just ten seconds and South Hobart went on to take the trophy with a 3-0 victory.
As a result, Ken Morton’s men also claimed a place in the FFA Cup round of 32, making it a famous double celebration for the capital club powerhouse.
Corica was subbed off on the hour mark with a hamstring complaint. But the former A-League playmaker – and now youth team coach at the Sky Blues - saw enough from South Hobart to suggest more success could come their way when the club kick off their Westfield FFA Cup round of 32 in early August.
“It was good to play and just unfortunate we didn’t get the win. We played a top team in South Hobart,” Corica told www.theffacup.com.au.
“They [South Hobart] might even surprise a few people in the next round.
“South Hobart would definitely fit into the NPL here [in NSW].
"They won’t be out-classed in the next round.
“They were young boys and very fit. They go all day up and down,” said the 32-times capped Socceroo.
The historic Tasmanian club, which formed over 100 years ago, has enjoyed a growing reputation on the national stage.
Last year, South made it to the NPL national grand final, eventually losing to a classy Sydney United in Hobart 2-0.
“They gave them [Sydney] a good run for their money.
“At the time, Sydney United were the best team in the NSW Premier League,” added Corica, who retired from the Hyundai A-League in 2010 but still plays over-35s for Glenwood SC alongside Zeljko Kalac and David Zdrilic.
In the Westfield FFA Cup round of 32, fans of South Hobart have been drawn with Capital Football's Tuggeranong United on Tuesday August 5 at KGV Park, Hobart (kick off 7.30pm, #SHvTUG).
For the full Westfield FFA Cup draw with times and dates, tap here.
