The PGFC First Team have a Sunday game to look forward to this weekend as Stirling Lions visit E&D Litis Stadium in Round 18 of the 2019 NPL WA.
One of the youngsters who has stood out for the side this season is Ethan Brooks and he continued his progress in midweek with a goal for the senior side in their victory over the WA State Team.
And the 19-year-old, who has been training with the Hyundai A-League squad throughout pre-season, is hoping for further opportunities to shine in the near future.
“Yes, it was a great experience and, of course, it was good to get more minutes with the A-League side in what’s been a hard pre-season so far,” he said.
“Hopefully, with plenty of upcoming games, the other NPL players and I can find ourselves in the squad again and go out and help the team perform.”
The Academy youngsters are coming off a frustrating 0-0 draw against ECU Joondalup, a game Brooks felt should have yielded three points.
“Last week was a hard-fought game where both sides had chances, but we definitely had opportunities that should have resulted in goals,” he said.
“I thought we were unlucky not to get a penalty late on in the game, but taking opportunities is definitely something we’ll need to work on for future matches.”
In terms of Sunday’s date with the Lions, the versatile teenager feels that three points are a must.
“We know the importance of this game and it’s vital we come away with a win,” he said.
“I don’t think we can really afford to give up any more points at this time in the season and with Stirling being in the position they are, they will come out looking for the same result as Joondalup.
“But I’m confident if we continue to work hard and show a bit more ruthlessness in front of goal, we’ll come away with the win.”
Head Coach Richard Garcia, meanwhile, is expecting the relegation-threatened visitors to provide his charges with a stern test.
“Yes, it’s another challenge for the lads, but one they can’t wait for,” he said.
“They (Stirling) have picked up in recent weeks and are fighting for their NPL survival, so we will need to match their intensity and play our game.
“Most of the boys had a good workout in the A-League team’s game against the WA State Squad on Wednesday and we were really happy for Ethan [Brooks] who got on the score sheet.
“It’s important for us to get back to winning ways and we will be doing all we can to make sure we do.”
The Under-18s get will get the action underway on Sunday at 11am, followed by the Under-20s at 1pm and the First Team at 3pm.
Do get along and lend the lads your support if you can, but if you can’t make it to E&D Litis Stadium, the Under-20s and First Team games will be live streamed on Football West’s Facebook page HERE.
#OneGlory
Picture courtesy of Tom McCarthy
