Both the Hills United FC first-grade men and women have entered the final third of their seasons and are sitting in very favourable positions to secure their places in next year’s competition, while also making a last-gasp push for possible promotion.
The Hills United FC first-grade men’s side resides in the Football NSW League One and is currently 6th on the ladder with nine games remaining in their 2026 season. Gary Van Egmond’s side lost over the weekend to Hurstville Zagreb FC after conceding a 92nd-minute goal away from home. Despite the loss, June was a good month for United, recording two wins and two draws along the way.
Promotion is still possible for United via the promotion/relegation playoff spot, which Northern Tigers currently hold. Van Egmond’s side is currently 7 points behind the Tigers, whom they play this coming weekend in what is a make-or-break game for the side and their hopes of returning to the National Premier League NSW Men’s competition for the first time since their relegation from the top-flight in 2024. That game will take place this Saturday at Valentine Sports Park, with kick-off scheduled for 5:00 PM
Meanwhile, the Hills United FC first-grade women’s side is 11th in the NPL women’s competition. The United women smashed out a win, with a goal by Olivia Sloan against Sydney Olympic last weekend for Paul Tassess’ side. Two recent mid-season A league signings with local Hills players, Mary Stanic Floody & Tiana Jaber, who will look to continue strengthening the squad. The women have also had some very strong games in recent times, with narrow losses, including a recent Sapphire Cup semi-final appearance, which is a great accomplishment for the area.
United are 10 points clear of the Western City Rangers, who are in last place, with nine matches remaining. The first-grade women’s side will be hoping to make it two from two when they take on Macarthur Rams FC this Sunday at 5:30 pm at Valentine Sports Park. The Rams won the previous encounter this season, though with one point separating these sides, it is set up to be another tight contest.
