Tigers FC get chance to deliver Canberra's best FFA Cup result

Canberra Olympic FC went the furthest any ACT NPL club has gone in the Cup in 2016, by reaching the semi-finals. And the Tigers have the opportunity to match it, or pass it, this year.

Two games stand in the way, a November 24 fixture against Sydney's APIA Leichhardt and, if they win, another to be against A-League Men's team Western Sydney Wanderers to reach the semi-finals.

Although Tigers head Ryan Grogan is focused on the APIA next week, he said believed in the quality of his squad.

"We know how big a challenge that's going to be [against APIA]. And then once we've done that job, then obviously we'll have whatever the period of time is to prepare for the Wanderers," he said.

"There's a reason why we were successful this year. I honestly believe that the side that I've assembled and that we have at Tigers still hasn't hit its straps in terms of what they're capable of.

"Once we get past APIA, I'm pretty sure we'll show everyone in the country what we can do against an A-League [Men's] side."

MORE IN CANBERRA SPORT:

The side first returned to the training park on October 16, after their season was cut short in early August due to COVID-19.

Three practice matches against other NPL sides has helped tick them along to their round of 32 fixture.

And despite their three-month break, the side exceeded Grogan's fitness expectations when they got back on the park.

"They came back in a hell of a lot fitter than I thought they would, which is good," he said.

"We've had to approach it like it's preseason with such a break away from the pitch. Although their fitness levels are good, their game fitness is a different thing.

"They know what's on the line in this game next week, so the intensity has been through the roof.

"The focus is on us to do what we do well, to make sure that any picture they put in front of us becomes irrelevant."

Tigers vice captain Jacob Cole said it felt good to be back on the pitch after lockdown.

"It's been very tough, I think mentally more than physically for most players. But I think the boys are definitely ready for whatever APIA throws at us," he said.