Young footy stars make history Wanderers re-sign Serbian star

The Western Sydney Wanderers continue to build for next season, re-signing highly regarded and experienced midfielder Milos Ninkovic.

Ninkovic made the move across the crosstown divide prior to the 2022/23 A-League season and played an instrumental role in the Wanderers’ midfield.

Inspired by their heroes at the Penrith Panthers, the Cambridge Park Cranebrook U9/1 Division 1 junior rugby league team have their eyes firmly on a Premiership.

Earlier this month, the all-boys team were crowned Minor Premiers of the competition after going the entire season undefeated.

Making their feats even more impressive is the fact they became the first Cambridge Park Cranebrook Division 1 team in 22 years to do so.

Proud coach Matt Mcburney praised his side for their incredible run this season.

“They are a great team together right across the park,” he told the Weekender

“Their defence is unreal. Our last four games, before heading into the semis, we didn’t let a single try in. They just click so well together, it’s awesome! The club as a whole is also super proud and have backed these boys from the start.”

Cambridge Park Cranebrook’s defence is reminiscent of the brick wall-like defence the Panthers have been putting up the past couple of seasons in the NRL.

Mcburney said his team of little superstars love watching the Panthers play.

“As a team, we are a close group. We go to all the Panthers home games together,” he said.

“The boys love watching the Panthers because they are doing so well.”

But the job isn’t done yet, with Cambridge Park Cranebrook set to play against the Windsor Wolves in this Saturday’s semi final at Blinkhorn Oval in Colyton. A win over the Wolves will put them into next weekend’s Grand Final.

“I am confident, but you never know what can happen,” Mcburney said.

The twice Johnny Warren Medallist winner featured in 21 matches for Western Sydney, made six assists and was part of the first Wanderers squad in six seasons to make the Finals.

Wanderers coach Marko Rudan praised the re-signing.

“We are delighted to have a player of Milos’ calibre re-sign with the club for another season,” he said.

“Milos has an endless amount of talent and we are looking forward to seeing his impact again this season, as well as helping guide the next generation of Wanderers players.”

The 38-year-old Serbian-born star said he was excited to continue his journey at the Wanderers.

“I am very blessed because the club gave me the chance to be part of the team for another year,” Ninkovic said.

“I think I can still help the team both on and off the field to reach our goals this season.”