Four players leave APIA Leichhardt
Four players have left NPL 1 club APIA Leichhardt just days after their 1–0 defeat to Manly United. The four players who have been released from the club are George Howard, Marc Warren, Zachary Mackenzie and Tariq Maia.
I have been informed by a source outside of the club that some of these departures have been instigated by the player seeking more of an opportunity while others have been instigated by the club. Perhaps coincidentally, these are all players who joined the club this season.
Howard, arguably the most high profile of the departures, has struggled to make an impact at the Tigers since joining from Melbourne Victory. The 21-year-old has only found the back of the net on two occasions in the league this season with both coming from the penalty spot. However, he did score a double in a 3–2 FFA Cup win over St George FC. It is believed Howard is set to return to Victoria.
Warren is another with A-League pedigree, however, he hasn’t been able to establish himself in Billy McColl’s starting eleven during his second spell with the club. It is my understanding that APIA were keen to retain the services of Warren, however, the former Sydney FC and Perth Glory player has agitated for a move due to a lack of starts. I understand a couple of NSW NPL 1 clubs are interested in signing the fullback.
Mackenzie is perhaps a surprising departure as he has been a decent performer since signing from Bonnyrigg White Eagles. The former Wollongong Wolf has already been snapped up by arch-rivals Sydney Olympic who currently lead the NPL 1. Interestingly enough, APIA play Olympic on Wednesday night in Round 7 of the FFA Cup though Mackenzie will not be featuring.
The fourth player leaving the Tigers is Maia who hasn’t featured in a First Grade NPL match since signing from Western Sydney Wanderers Youth side though he did score in the side’s 9–1 FFA Cup rout of Fraser Park. I believe Maia is set to join up with NPL 1 club Sydney United.
APIA play Olympic at Belmore Sports Ground tonight at 7.30 pm.
