Steve Glockner seperates the Cup Dream from reality ahead of Strikers tie
ACE coach Steve Glockner is under no illusions about the challenge his side faces at Wolter Park tomorrow, kick-off 7.30pm.
The glamour of the FFA Cup has paired ACE with NPL Queensland side Brisbane Strikers.
“We are playing against very good team, two leagues above us,” said Glockner.
“To play Strikers and win would be wonderful. That’s a bit of a dream, that would be a beautiful night.
“We’re taking it one game at a time and our focus is on this match, but the reality for us is to keep doing well in the league and keep getting three points.”
Strikers were the 1997 National Soccer League (NSL) champions, 2016 NPL Queensland title winners and 2017 NPL Grand Finalists.
They started this season slowly, but are now in fourth after beating derby rivals Brisbane City 4-2 on Saturday. At the same time ACE came from 1-0 down to win 2-1 against Centenary Stormers.
The ACE coach is assessing his players’ fitness before naming the squad for tomorrow’s FFA Cup tie.
“I thought we did pretty well in the first half (against Stormers),” said Glockner, “it was disappointing to come in (at half-time) one-nil down.
“We had more chances than them. They had one opportunity and scored. We had four and just couldn’t finish them.
“It’s not like the guys were playing poorly, we were just not taking our chances in front of goal.
“At half time we said stick to what we’re doing, have faith in yourself, keep going forward and chances will come. We will take them.
“I was very relieved (at the final whistle) and really happy for the guys, because they put in a strong performance, lifted the tempo, worked harder, put their bodies on the line.
“We’re seeing little flashes of wonderful football, moments when you see what we’re trying to do. As a coach you try to stretch those moments, make them last longer.
“I think we’re now at about 30 per cent (of potential). There’s still a lot to learn, but technically and capability, the players are doing very well.”
