In a month's time, Wollongong Wolves will take on Sydney FC in a friendly game.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Having missed out on the FFA Cup round of 32, this kind of fixture is a dream result for the club.
But because of their recent National Premier League success, there's a discussion about how taking on the A-League champions fits into their own ambitions.
Amazing to think about really.
Seven points clear in the title race, the Wolves are now factoring in a date with Australia's most successful club, as they think about how to approach the finals.
If they are premiers, Wollongong would have a week off, meaning they face a meeting with Sydney FC three days after potentially collecting the trophy at home.
The doomsday scenario would see them play three games in a week, if APIA Leichhardt could catch them with four rounds remaining.
It's the perfect incentive.
Go and win the title. Then go and play the best football can offer us.
Last week we talked about the Wolves chasing the premiers title for the first time since 1988, having won two grand final championships at the turn of the century.
Pages of history are ready to be written.
Sutherland always bring a derby-like feel to games against the Wolves, with powerhouse clubs Blacktown City, Rockdale and Waratah Cup champions Marconi waiting.
So it's not over, it won't be handed to them. It's not easy.
But then neither is taking on Sydney FC, thankfully to be played in our own backyard at WIN Stadium.
And the Wolves are ready for it.
NSW NATIONAL PREMIER LEAGUE
Wollongong Wolves run home (First 42 points, +31)
Round 19: Saturday v Sutherland at WIN Stadium (6pm)
Round 20: Sunday, July 28 v Blacktown City at Lily Homes Stadium (3pm)
Round 21: Sunday, August 4 v Rockdale City at Ilinden Sports Centre (4.30pm)
Round 22: Sunday, August 11 v Marconi at WIN Stadium (3pm)
APIA Leichhardt's run home (Second 35 points +12)
Round 19: Sunday v Sydney Olympic at Lambert Park
Round 20: Saturday, July 27 v Sydney FC at Lambert Park
Round 21: Sunday, August 4 v Manly United at Cromer Park
Round 22: Sunday, August 11 v Mt Druitt Town at Popondetta Park
FRIENDLY MATCH
Wednesday, August 14
WOLLONGONG WOLVES v SYDNEY FC at WIN Stadium (7pm)
While you're with us the Illawarra Mercury is offering sport readers 20% off an annual digital subscription. Sign up to stay up to date with all the local sports you love for only $3 a week. Terms and conditions apply.