The Wānaka Football Club kicks off its bid for promotion to the Southern League tomorrow (Saturday September 28) when it plays Waimak United in Wānaka.

The match is part of a two-leg playoff with the winner, and promoted club, determined on goal aggregate across the two matches.

Wānaka AFC director of football Ben Sippola said the club is excited about the challenge the playoffs present but the team has had less than ideal preparation due to the weather.

“We’ve hardly been able to train for the last month because the grounds have been closed,” Ben said.

“We played our last competitive match on September 4.”

Ben said the team is also missing some key players including captain and centre-back Paul Rodwell.

“We’re missing three to four players due to travel, injury and sickness but we still have a really strong squad.”

Despite the challenges in the lead-up to the playoffs, Ben is optimistic about the club's chances.

“The various challenges put us a little on the back foot but I still think we’re the team to beat over the next two legs,” he said.

Waimak United won the second division of Christchurch football and defeated Nelson FC for the right to contest promotion to the Southern League.

They are known for playing “pretty direct football” with a strong set piece, Ben said.

The first-leg match is at 3.30pm this Saturday at the Wānaka Recreation Centre, before the second match in Rangiora on Sunday October 6.

PHOTO: Steve McArthur