The magic of the FFA Cup struck again last night as the competition saw its biggest ever upset.
A League champions Melbourne Victory, were sent home form the competition in thrilling fashion as APIA Leichardt ran out 3-2 winners in Sydney.
APIA took a two goal lead thanks to a brace from Tasuku Sekiya. The Japanese player – who works part-time as a kitchenhand at the Sydney Opera House, according to The Guardian – scored one either side of half time before Kenny Athiu dragged Victory level with two goals in six minutes.
Defender Nathan Milgate proved to be the Leichardt hero with a towering header ten minutes from time.
APIA’s victory marks the first time in the history of the competition that a non-league side has beaten A League opposition in the round of 16 and the first time that the Victory have lost to a non A-League side.
In Far North Queensland, reigning champions Sydney FC avoided their own banana skin with a 2-1 victory over Cairns FC.
The minnows took the lead in the 17th minute and held on until the hour mark when Alex Brosque hit back with a penalty. Three minutes later, Trent Buhagiar put the Sky Blues ahead as keeper Andrew Redmayne kept the champions hopes alive with a penalty save late on.
In Newcastle, home-side Broadmeadow Magic were put to the sword by Bentleigh Greens who ran out 4-0 winners. A hat-trick from forward Chris Lucas put the game beyond doubt before Tyson Holmes added a fourth in the closing stages.
Avondale United also progressed to the final eight with a 4-1 win over Devonport Strikers. United were up 2-0 when Brayden Mann pulled one back for Devonport from the penalty spot. Devonport’s Guillermo Lazcano was sent off in the 77th minute and Avondale quickly made their advantage pay with two goals to seal the tie.
Gallagher is the official insurance broker of Football Federation Australia and a supporter of the FFA Cup.