Melbourne Knights FC Official Website This Friday night, April 4th, at 7:30 PM, Tompsett Stadium once again becomes an undefeated fortress for an NPL Victoria clash steeped in footballing history. Melbourne Knights and Preston Lions will face off in an NPL match for the first time, their last encounter, 16 years prior in 2009, ending n a commanding 5-0 win for the Knights. Whilst both clubs are donned in their same colours, much has changed since then.
The Melbourne Knights, a club forged in the heart of the Croatian community, have long been a staple of Australia’s footballing fabric. Preston Lions, representing the Macedonian community with equal passion, have clawed their way back into the NPL, showcasing the resilience and ambition that defines grassroots football in this country. Their rise through the lower leagues is a testament to determination, and their return to the top tier adds an exciting new chapter to what is sure to become a storied rivalry.
With the Knights coming off a crucial 3-1 victory over St Albans Saints Dinamo, the win ended a tough spell and injected much-needed momentum into their season. The Knights, fuelled by their recent victory and the passionate home crowd, will look to remind everyone why Tompsett Stadium is their stronghold – a place that looms fear on all visiting squads. Preston, on the other hand, have been flying high in 5th place and will undoubtedly arrive to Sunshine in full of belief that they can make a statement. Their upward trajectory has been the result of years of hard work, and their ambitions don’t stop at simply being in the league—they want to contend.
Football at this level isn’t just about points on the table; it’s about history, identity, and the unwavering loyalty of supporters who see their clubs as extensions of their own cultural heritage.
Both clubs have seen legendary figures pass through their ranks. Players such as Gian Albano, who starred for the Knights before moving to Preston, have worn both shirts with distinction. The likes of Ian Dobson, John Markovski, and Robert Markovac have left their mark on both institutions, reinforcing the interconnected histories of these two footballing powerhouses. With the echoes of past encounters lingering in the air and the promise of an electrifying contest ahead, one thing is certain: Victorian football has never seemed more alive and thriving. Let the battle begin.
Ticketing
Parking• Parking is very limited and will reach full capacity early. To ease congestion, carpooling is strongly encouraged (map: 3, 16 and 17)
Entry• Gate 2 (Second entrance) – Situated next to the clubrooms (map: 7)
Food & Beverage• A total of eight food and beverage sales points will be available throughout the evening, including pizza, souvlaki and burger food trucks. Find them on our venue map (map: 4, 8, 14 and 15)
Merchandise
Croatia SC crew neck jumper (restock) Croatia SC t-shirt Jersey Eras t-shirt MCMLIII embroidered crew neck jumper (new) Snapback hat Beanie Umbro MKFC puffer jackers Umbro MKFC track jackets Umbro MKFC windbreaker jackets Umbro MKFC poloGet in early and don’t miss another spectacle at Somers Street!
