Murray United FC is an Australian soccer club encapsulating NSW's Riverina and North East Victoria. The club is based in Albury/Wodonga and will compete in the National Premier Leagues (NPL) next year, playing in Victoria's National Premier Leagues Victoria 1. Murray United will play its home matches at La Trobe University.
Foundation
In early 2014 it was announced that an application had been submitted to Football Federation Victoria for a side under the name 'Border FC'. The club was officially launched on May 27, 2014, as part of Australia's new look second tier of soccer, but under the name, Murray United FC. The change of name was to capture all things synonymous with the region. Murray United FC will promote opportunities for those wanting to play elite soccer from the local competition, the Albury Wodonga Football Association(AWFA), and will play in the second division of Victoria's NPL; NPL1. La Trobe University and Wodonga TAFE are the team's foundation sponsors.
On 29 September 2014, former Woking FC player & player/coach of local side Twin City Wanderer's FC, Matt Gray, was appointed head coach for the inaugural year. This was short lived however, with the region's gun player realising the demands of coaching & playing was too much, resigning in late December. He was replaced by dual code premiership coach Mick Richards, who won flags the local AFL and soccer competitions.[1]
On 31 October 2014, Murray United FC played their first match against external opposition, defeating Cobram Roar FC, a combined team of Cobram SC & Cobram Victory looking to participate in the AWFA next season. The final score was 7-0 to Murray United FC and was the last chance for players to impress before the 2015 squad announcement.
In a restructuring of NPL1 Victoria ahead of the 2015 season the division was divided into two parallel conferences. Murray United F.C. will compete in the Eastern Conference.
Home Ground
Panroamic shot of Murray United FC's home ground at La Trobe University
The club will ground share the La Trobe University soccer facilities with local side Wodonga Diamonds. The ground is located in Wodonga, Victoria and will receive numerous upgrades leading into the inaugural season. Chairman Mark Byatt stated, “The focus will be on lighting, seating and minor works to players’ facilities and security.[2]
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
Mick Richards
