Apart from McBreen and Rose, Edgeworth have a vibrant side filled with promising young players.

Under Zane they are known for playing modern, attacking football.

The coach hopes this round of 16 Cup tie will help put the spotlight on some of his young tyros.

While the Eagles’ top-scorer Oliver Smith will miss the Jets clash with suspension, 17-year-old striker Archie Finn will get the opportunity to make his mark.

"There’s still a few guys there who are young enough to put their hand up, especially with a second division on the horizon hopefully,” Zane said.

"It might just open up a few chances for some of these young guys who, for whatever reason, just missed the boat and may have the talent for that next level. Archie will play a part [in the game] at some stage. He’s come on and scored a few goals for us.

"He turned 17 this year, he’s a pretty decent talent. He’s quite a physical boy up front and doesn’t mind mixing it with men. And in the penalty area he’s just got a fantastic ability to get on the end of crosses. He’s definitely one to look out for.”

The Cup run is also a platform for Zane’s own burgeoning coaching reputation to grow.

The 39-year-old, the cousin of former Socceroo Clayton, debuted as a 15-year-old in Newcastle for West Wallsend in the 1990s.

He went on to play for the youth teams of NSL sides Marconi Stallions and Newcastle Breakers, overseas in the Romanian second division, and in the State League for Bankstown.

But it is in coaching where Zane has flourished.

"I was so impatient,” he said.

"I was really fiery as a player and that’s changed as a coach. It’s funny how you learn from your mistakes. I was probably a clever player so coaching always appealed. I think I’m a better coach than a player, definitely.

"I’ve finished my A license at this end of this year. I do have aspirations [of coaching at a higher level], but I just enjoy football. Wherever it takes me I’m happy with. I’m not going to stab people in the back.

"Wherever my performance takes me…. If it takes me nowhere, I love what we’re building at Egdeworth. Our performances in the league and especially the Cup – the Cup has allowed us to build facilities.

"I love the club and I’m pretty happy where I am."