Blueys receive boost ahead of Premier League showdown

The Blueys will host Premier League leaders Bulli at Tarrawanna Oval on Saturday afternoon. It shapes as a crucial clash for the home side, who clinched their first win in 2020 last week.

Ferraro, who took over as captain ahead of this year's IPL, missed their 2-1 victory over South Coast United due to a hamstring complaint.

However, the 23-year-old hopes to return to the field this weekend.

"I'm back at training this week so fingers crossed it all goes well to play this week," Ferraro said.

"I missed last weekend because I didn't feel as confident in it as I'd like to be."

After finishing one game short of last year's IPL grand final, the Blueys have had mixed start to 2020.

Tarrawanna had a 2-all draw with Corrimal to kick off the season before falling 2-0 to Wollongong United.

Round three's clash with Coniston was washed out, before last Saturday night's 2-1 win over South Coast United. Daniel Chapman and Zac Maveski found the back of the net for the winners.

"The boys did well. We started well, getting up 2-0, before they pulled one back," Ferraro said.

"There were good signs and it was good to get on the score sheet. It was good to see some of the young players being able to play freely and build confidence. Our front three played a really good game and we defended well. It was good signs to hold on 2-1."

However, Ferraro knows the pressure will be on his side to back up against Bulli.

"They're up the top of the table so it's a good test for us," the captain said.

"We'll look to disrupt them as much as possible and get them a little frustrated in doing what they do best. If we can interrupt them, hopefully we can get on the score sheet and beat them on the day. If we can work as a team again and put in the effort, I don't see why we can't get the result."

Elsewhere, Port Kembla will look to build on last week's first victory over Albion Park when they tackle Woonona at Ocean Park on Saturday afternoon.

In Saturday's other Illawarra Premier League games, Wollongong United will face South Coast United at Macedonia Park, Olympic meets Cringila at PCYC and Coniston hosts the undefeated Bellambi at JJ Kelly Park.

Round five concludes on Sunday afternoon when reigning IPL champions Corrimal take on Albion Park White Eagles at Memorial Park. It shapes as a crucial game for both sides, who have each clinched one victory so far this season.