As Sydney United attempt to claim what is in effect the Australian second-tier title for the second time in four years, club boss Sam Krslovic has warned unless Football Federation Australia make serious moves towards establishing a nationwide second division, ambitious semi-pro clubs around the country will "take matters into their own hands".

Sydney United host Northern NSW surprise packets Edgeworth Eagles in Sunday's national NPL final at Edensor Park. Formed 58 years ago, and largely developed by the Croatian migrant community, Sydney United have a long history of fighting head office – and nothing's changed.

Panagiotis Nikas in action for Sydney United, who won this year's NSW minor premiership. Credit:Getty Images

During their 20 years in the former National Soccer League (NSL), the club produced a string of famous Socceroos – among them Zeljko Kalac and Tony Popovic – and also enjoyed reasonable success, although a championship eluded them. Since the NSL made way for the A-League 11 years ago, Sydney United have been in the NPL competition, and after claiming this year's NSW minor premiership now stand on the threshold of a second national title after winning the inaugural NPL final against South Hobart in 2013.

But it's the lack of opportunity to play on a bigger stage on a regular basis that continues to frustrate the club, and Krslovic has thrown his full support behind plans to introduce a second division.