Yeah NZF fudgeed up.
But lets not forget last year was a return from the international wilderness for Payne. He probably made sure ES released him. Also De Jong had gone to the NSW NPL by then, and ES would have always been considered a long shot to make the Handy Prem final, finishing regular season a bit back in 4th.
Then Dyer got red carded in the last regular season game, so missed the semi as well, as ACFC pumped them 4-0.
This season ES have been more impressive, have a better team with all the Western Suburbs kids, and have retained De Jong until the end of their campaign. They are a real chance of winning their semi no matter who they play, so far less likely to release players for the AWs, with a dates clash. This season you feel is their big chance to grab an OFC Champions League spot, esp if the likes of Just, McCowatt, De Jong move on to Europe at season end. They may have a weaker side in Handy Prem 2019/20.
Lastly you also have Declan involved with ES this season. As shown with Western Suburbs stance when U17s(?) tourney clashed with the Chatham Cup, he will choose club/player development, over country.
But again NZF had plenty of time to know this, and sort out alternative dates etc.