Belconnen United take on Central Coast Mariners.

Belconnen United play Central Coast Mariners on Saturday night at Belconnen Soccer Centre.

The Belconnen side contains a number of young players that have played in ACT representative sides and the ACT Academy of Sport. Seven of the squad also played for the Blue Devils Under 20s.

Former Blue Devil and United captain Lee Pietrukowski said the side would rise to the occasion.

“Some of our players have played at a high level - I wouldn’t say A-league [standard] but close to and I believe it’s a good opportunity for some of the lads to see what they’re up against and see the level they need to aspire to,” he said.

“I believe we can be competitive.”

Belconnen Coach Steve Forshaw agreed the side wouldn’t be overawed by the Mariners.

“At this stage of the season we’re fully into the swing of things and we’ve got some decent players and a good squad. If we play well and they’re not up for it, surprises have happened before.” he said.

The Central Coast players will train on Friday from 4:30 to 6pm at Mackellar Stadium.

Belconnen United v Central Coast Mariners is on this Saturday, 30 June. Kick off is at 5.30pm

Tony Vidmar, Nick Mrdja, Tom Pondeljak, Sasho Petrovski and Dean Heffernan are just some of the A-League stars on show.

Can the Canberra lads turn the A-League side over?

What do you think?