The Football Federation Australia needs to launch a national knockout cup competition without delay to merge “old soccer” with “new football,” according to Fox Sports football commentators during a discussion on Fox Sports FC.
While discussing the ‘State of the Game,’ Mark Bosnich emphasized that prioritizing a cup competition is essential.
“The allure of a cup competition is unparalleled,” Bosnich stated.
“No matter the approach, let’s just initiate it. A key aspect is to connect the so-called ‘old soccer’ with ‘new football.’
“I prefer not to differentiate between ‘old soccer’ and ‘new football.’ Instead, I want to refer to it simply as football or soccer indefinitely.
“This initiative could serve as a bridge. There are still many individuals from the past who are affected by the circumstances surrounding the formation of the A-League. It’s crucial to involve them again.”
On the other hand, Mike Cockerill expressed that the FFA should disregard the cup if it won’t follow a knockout format.
“If the structure involves a group stage, I’ll have to withdraw my support,” Cockerill remarked.
“A cup signifies a knockout format.
“It’s the (UEFA) Champions League, not the European Cup, due to the introduction of a group stage.
“This isn’t necessary in our country. I don’t desire a competition that effectively secures dominance for A-League clubs.
“I want the possibility of Sydney United defeating Sydney FC or Melbourne Knights overcoming Melbourne Victory, which can only happen in a single knockout scenario.”
Melbourne Heart captain Simon Colosimo supported the idea that the proposed FFA Cup could be an excellent method to “bring back supporters from the old NSL.”
“I support the cup initiative,” Colosimo expressed.
“Facing Melbourne Knights on their turf would be quite intimidating.
“Even though I’m older now, I still feel a sense of apprehension going back.
“Many of these clubs have a deep-rooted history. It would be fantastic to see them compete with elite teams and have a chance to win something, especially if it opens up a spot in the (AFC Asian) Champions League for advancement.”
Andy Harper concurred that establishing the cup is urgent and urged the FFA to take bold steps.
However, he advised that the FFA Cup should remain a uniquely Australian event.
“It has to be an Australian Cup,” Harper asserted.
“(FFA) should not hesitate to pursue this, even if it doesn’t initially yield massive commercial success.
“It should focus on the passion of the game.
“Just kick it off – but without Wellington (Phoenix) and in a knockout format.”
