Two of Victoria’s most ambitious National Premier League clubs reignite their rivalry on the national stage on Friday night, as Preston Lions host Avondale FC at Genis Steel Stadium to kick off the third round of the Australian Championship.
In what shapes as a pivotal Group C clash, both sides enter the contest knowing the margins are fiercely tight.
Group C was labelled as the competition’s “Group of Death” by commentator Adamo De Nigris, which has proven to be exactly that. Each of the four teams remain within touching distance in both points and goal difference, meaning every remaining fixture between Avondale, Canberra Croatia, North West Sydney Spirit and Preston could dramatically reshape the standings heading toward round six.
Recent history also adds intrigue as both sides have never shared the spoils in their past four meetings - Avondale had claimed three victories to Preston’s single triumph.
Avondale began their campaign in style at Avenger Park with Bruno Fornaroli scoring on his debut in a 3-1 win against Canberra Croatia. Preston meanwhile, were held to a 1-1 draw against interstate visitors North West Sydney Spirit.
Round Two delivered contrasting fortunes on the road. Avondale, despite holding a two-goal advantage early in the second half, were forced to settle for a draw against Spirit after conceding late.
Preston on the other hand surrendered a half-time lead to fall 3-2 against Canberra Croatia in front of a healthy crowd in the capital.
Avondale assistant coach Shane Rexhepi said a strong away performance against Preston could be the catalyst for a deep finals run.
“Preston are a top-shelf club and a top-shelf team, and that’s where we see ourselves also,” Rexhepi said.
“We’re going there to get all three points, but we know we’ll need to be at our best.
"Management’s focus this week has been refreshing the group and making sure we’re ready for Friday night.”
For Preston, the fixture carries added emotional weight, with head coach Louie Acevski celebrating his 300th competitive game as a manager.
Club president David Cvetkovski described Acevski as a central figure in the club’s modern rise.
“His standing within the football ecosystem as a competitor and a friend stands above all,” Cvetkovski said.
“He’s a man with a passion for his club to succeed and for his community to be proud.”
Since joining from Hume City in 2017, Acevski has overseen Preston’s resurgence from State League One back to the National Premier League, becoming a pillar of the Lions’ resurgence on and off the field.
Kick-off is at 7:30pm (AEDT) at Genis Steel Stadium. Watch live on the FA's YouTube channel and SBS On Demand.