FFA Cup: Lambton Jaffas depth tested for trip to Cessnock

Crowley, who has played two NPL games, is cup-tied with Victorian club Bulleen and joins Joel Griffiths, Nathan Verity (away), Jobe Wheelhouse (ankle) and Michael Kantarovski (quad) as definite outs for the game against the second-tier Hornets at Turner Park. Recent addition Finn Parris will start for the Jaffas, who lost 2-1 to Hamilton on Saturday to stay fifth in the NPL.

The Jaffas travel to Maitland on Sunday knowing a loss could drop them to seven points outside the top four.

“I haven’t been unhappy with any of the performances,” coach James Pascoe said.

“We’re just spurning chances that should be taken and moments of sloppiness at the back are proving costly.”

** Lake Macquarie will get Sam and Tom Walker back for their FFA Cup clash with Charlestown at Lisle Carr Oval on Wednesday night.

The brothers missed the 2-0 loss to Maitland on Saturday night because of a wedding. 

** Weston have decided not to appeal the three-game suspension of coach Steve Piggott for match official abuse.

It’s little wonder given appeals carry a $1000 fee. The Bears beat the Jets Youth 2-1 without Piggott last Wednesday and he serves the second match of the ban on Wednesday night when Weston host Hamilton in the FFA Cup.

Hamilton coach Peter McGuinness said Jacob Bailey, who missed Saturday’s win because of a wedding, will be back.

Rhys Cooper remains overseas playing futsal.

Winners on Wednesday night qualify for the June 9-11 final eight Northern NSW tournament, from which two progress to the nationwide round of 32.

Olympic are yet to make the round of 32 in the Cup but are in form after back-to-back wins in the NPL.

“I’m going in with the strongest team I can, taking into account injuries and workloads,” McGuinness said.

“The club would like to get into the main draw. It’s such a good showpiece for your club. I really like the concept and it’s something we want to be involved in as long as we can.”