Warriors’ path to NPL1 glory unveiled

NORTH Geelong Warriors’ return to the NPL1 division after six years will kick off earlier than expected as pre-season gets under way for a mid-February season start.

Football Victoria’s fixture release a fortnight ago lit the path for North Geelong’s first division return, all kicking off when they head to Kingston Heath Soccer Complex to take on Bentleigh Greens on February 17.

The Warriors’ home opener is ready to draw a sell-out crowd on February 25, as NPL1 football returns to Elcho Park in Round 2 against Port Melbourne Sharks.

Elcho Park will host 13 games in total in NPL1 2023, including welcoming fellow Australian Croatian clubs St Albans Saints in Round 11 on April 29 and Melbourne Knights in Round 21 on July 9.

Other key home games to mark in the calendar include the 2022 NPL2 title rematch against Moreland City in Round 19 on June 24, and then a tough finish to the season hosting reigning NPL1 champions Oakleigh Cannons in Round 25 and then reigning runners-up South Melbourne in Round 26 to conclude the season.

Before the start of the campaign, North Geelong will conduct pre-season friendlies against Preston Lions (January 7), South Melbourne (January 14), Werribee City (January 21), Pascoe Vale (January 26), Boroondara Eagles (January 29) and lastly Brunswick Juventus (February 10).

For the full fixture, head to facebook.com/ngwfc