Football's inaugural FFA Cup has come at the perfect time for one of Australia's most iconic clubs.
Established in 1957 by Croatian migrants, Sydney United has grown into a powerhouse during the National Soccer League era.
But the collapse of the NSL and the start of the A-League in 2005 forced a number of famous and proud clubs — such as Sydney United — out of the national spotlight.
For those clubs, the new FFA Cup, featuring A-League and National Premier League sides, is an opportunity to relive the glory days of the past.
A place steeped in history
For Sydney United, it all begins at Edensor Park in Sydney's west, where a former NSL heavyweight prepares for its much-anticipated FFA Cup debut against Far North Queensland Heat.
Coach Mark Rudan, who began his playing career at the club, says it's a place steeped in history.
"This is a big club, a lot of history; we produced and developed a lot of Socceroos and we are very proud of that," he said.
"A lot of people forgot about this club. Not just our club but a lot of other clubs who were powerhouses in the NSL. And this gives us an opportunity now to showcase what we are about and that we are still around.
"We are all proud of the A-League but you can't forget the clubs like ours, who have done so much for football in this country."
Midfielder Ante Tomic comes from a Croatian background and the club has been always been at the centre of his and his family's social life.
"This club was built from the ground by community, by Croatian immigrants and that what makes it special," he said.
"It's not a business, it's community-owned."
Like Tomic, Mark Rudan is also proud of his Croatian heritage. He said coaching Sydney United had a special meaning for him.
"[I feel] very privileged to coach a big club like this," he said.
"A lot more pressure as well because you are also working for the community and that's always been very important.
The way up
After winning last season's inaugural National Premier League, Sydney United's title defence has proved to be something of a disappointment so far.
Centre-back Nathan Sherlock said that made players even more determined to repay their loyal fans with a strong campaign in the FFA Cup.
"They are very passionate crowd, we really think they are an extra player on the field with us," he said.
"They are a very supportive bunch. Win or lose, they always turn up. They also travel a lot of distance to watch us as well."
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