Brisbane Roar will tackle Central Coast Mariners for a spot in the FFA Cup quarter-finals after Robbie Fowler’s side headlined a host of upsets. An inexperienced Roar impressed in their 2-0 win over reigning A-League champions Sydney FC on Wednesday night.

The concluding round of 32 saw last season’s top-three A-League sides all eliminated as Perth Glory fell to Western Sydney Wanderers, and Melbourne Victory were toppled by Newcastle Jets. Wellington Phoenix crashed out against semi-professional opponents as Brisbane Strikers triumphed on penalties, leaving just six A-League clubs in the competition.

But it was Liverpool legend Fowler in his full-time coaching debut who grabbed all the headlines with an unexpected victory on the back of goals from Stefan Mauk and Jay O’Shea at Leichhardt Oval.

“We lined up with a 16-year-old and had an 18-year-old in the midfield so to score two goals away from home against the champions, and keep a clean sheet is an epic achievement,” said Fowler.

“We had a lot of belief and were quietly confident. We know we still have a lot to do so we are not getting carried away.”

The match was Fowler’s first as a coach other than a brief stint on an interim basis with Thailand club Muangthong United in 2011. “People mention inexperience but I’m happy and comfortable and confident in the dug-out,” he added.

Fowler will now be able to pit wits against former Matildas coach Alen Stajcic who is in his first full season with the Mariners. The last-16 draw also features two former national heavyweights up against the new breed with Marconi Stallions hosting Melbourne City, and Sydney United welcoming Western Sydney Wanderers