Viking Park Prepares to Host FFA Cup

MEDIA RELEASE Monday 17 October 2016

Viking Park prepares to host FFA Cup

Final preparations to the pitch at Vikings Park are underway, as Canberra Olympic and Sydney FC gear up for their blockbuster semi-final clash in a bid for the FFA Cup.

Crowds of up to 7,000 are expected to descend on Vikings Park tomorrow for the game, touted as one of the biggest soccer matches in the capital’s history.

Vikings Group CEO Anthony Hill said they were privileged to be able to provide a home for Canberra’s football teams.

“We’re so excited to have the opportunity to host such an important match, especially in the heart of the Tuggeranong Valley,” Mr Hill said.

“Part of our plan is to continue providing opportunities like this for Tuggeranong, and wider Canberra community.”

Viking Park was chosen the only alternative to Canberra Stadium with the ability to host such an event.

Viking Park Greenskeeper Sean Maxwell has been working to a meticulous mowing and watering schedule to ensure the pitch is in pristine condition.

“We have continued mowing the field as normal at this time of year but changed the pattern to suit FFA requirements,” Mr Maxwell said.

“With all the rain we have had, minimal extra watering has been required, but we will spike and de-compact before the game. The field is quite firm at the moment from excess rain and traffic so we’ll need to soften it up.

“We started sowing extra seed through the middle of the field in early August to ensure full coverage given all the traffic from rugby throughout the season.”

Canberra Olympic take on Sydney FC tomorrow, Wednesday 19th October from 7.15pm at Viking Park, Wanniassa, ACT.

Quotes about refurbishment

“We’re happy to provide a home for soccer now, and would love to upgrade and renew the grounds to offer the Tuggeranong and Canberra community a facility they can be proud of showcasing on a national and international scale.

“Considering Viking Park is the only other facility in Canberra comparable to Manuka Oval and Canberra Stadium, there is a community need for refurbishment,” Mr Hill said.