BORROOLOLA Cyclones admit they have it all to do in their historic-making FFA Cup match against Hellenic at the Darwin Football Stadium tonight.

The Cyclones, the first all-indigenous team to take part in the national competition, arrived in the Top End yesterday morning and immediately headed to the venue where it all will happen for a light training session.

The squad also got to meet up with the boots they will wear in the cup-tie.

A week ago all of their playing footwear were stolen from their storage unit at the Booroolola High School but thanks to some generous donations the Cyclones’ plans are back on track.

Despite all the gifts, including free flights and a courtesy mini bus, manager Josh Smith admits his team will start as underdogs.

“But we will not be overawed,” Smith said.

Coach Mark Wakeling also admitted it would be a tough contest.

“It will be the first time the squad has got together since the Palmerston competition last September,” Wakeling said.

“It has been a hard job getting the boys here.

“Some are working in the mines, some are in difference communities.”

Captain and defensive midfielder Alister Evans said it was an opportunity to put their community on the World Game map.

“I think we can match it with Hellenic. Some of the boys are skilful and can defend well,” said Evans, whose round-ball experience includes playing for the NT side at Adelaide’s Hindmarsh Stadium six years ago.

The Cyclones have also bolstered their ranks with some talented imports.

Former Sydney FC youth player Keifer Dotti, the son of former Cronulla Sharks star Phillip Dotti, will play for the club.

Goalkeeper Daniel Campos has also played at a higher level while tall Dutch striker Janeck Jansen, who has worked at the Borroolola petrol service station for the past six months, could be a handful for the Hellenic defence.

The experienced Mathew Robinson and Kynan Barnes could also test the Darwin team’s backline.

Originally published as Borroloola boys on centre stage