Wollongong United coach Jeff Allport believes his squad will take underdog status into Sunday’s decider against Bulli, but is relishing the thought of taking on the League Championship winners.
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United booked their spot in the Illawarra Premier League grand final with a tense 2-1 extra time win over Wollongong Olympic at Memorial Park on Sunday.
Bulli beat the same Olympic outfit to seal their passage to a second consecutive decider.
The northern suburbs powerhouse have already claimed back-to-back League Championships this season, but will be hoping to win their first grand final since 1986.
United’s last success in the decider came in 2015.
They were considered by many to be the team to beat in 2018, but will go into the grand final as outsiders, according to Allport.
“We are not favourites,” the coach said.
“They are the benchmark side on the competition, they are first in to the grand final and they play great football.
“We are going to go there and give it a big shake.
“Credit to Wollongong Olympic. I think what they play works for them and it is very effective but I think two of the best good sides will be in the grand final next week.”
United will be forced to sweat on the fitness of striker Matthew McNab.
The talented forward had to be subbed off with an injury to his left knee in the club’s preliminary final win over Olympic.
United and Bulli will also feature in the youth grade grand final after the latter won through to the decider with a 3-1 win over Wollongong Olympic on the weekend.
Corrimal Rangers play Cringila Lions in the under 23s, with all games played at WIN Stadium.
