Brisbane Roar Youth has had the perfect preparation for the 2019 NPL QLD season after being crowned as Foxtel Y-League Champions on Friday.
The Young Roar were in control for most of the match, able to put three timely goals past Western Sydney Wanderers for their first Youth Premiership.
Daniel Leck, Shannon Brady and Mirza Muratovic were the scorers for the Roar who shot out to a 3-0 lead before having to valiantly defend as the Wanderers sought a way back into the contest.
Goalkeeper Macklin Freke, who was named on the bench in the 2018 NPL QLD Team of the Year, was instrumental between the posts, making a number of key saves.
“It was a bit of a nerve-racking last 20 minutes, but we got the job done,” Freke said.
“I can’t fault the performance, everyone played unreal today. I’m really proud of the boys. It was an unreal season from the boys and great to finish it with a win.”
The Roar stood strong in a gritty closing period, denying a fast-finishing Wanderers outfit with Roar Academy Director Drew Sherman saying the result was a deserved reward for effort and hard work.
“It’s pleasing they managed to see the game out,” Sherman said post-game.
“It’s an experience for them, an important part of their development and a chance to win something. They worked really hard & I’m proud of them.”
Brisbane Roar begin their 2019 NPL campaign against semi-finalists Western Pride at Briggs Road Sporting Complex (kick-off 7:30pm).
