After securing a third pre-season victory on Tuesday afternoon, the Roar’s sights are locked firmly on next week’s FFA Cup blockbuster against Melbourne City at Redcliffe’s Dolphin Stadium.
The excitement in the camp has begun to reach critical mass, after claiming a well-earned 2-1 victory over Wellington Phoenix at Robina earlier this week.
Eric Bauthéac, who levelled the scores in the clash with Wellington, believes Brisbane’s strong pre-season form is setting the group up for season-long success.
“This year we have a really strong team. We are younger and more confident team, with a great coach, great staff and lots of good energy heading into the season,” Bauthéac said.
After scoring four goals in the opening three pre-season matches, the marquee winger says he is settling well into a full pre-season program with the Roar.
“I am feeling confident, we have a longer pre-season than usual, so I have extra time to get to know my teammates and to train hard,” Bauthéac continued.
Bauthéac is no stranger to the high-pressure competition of cup football, which he believes will be of advantage to his talented Roar teammates.
“In France, I played in front of 60,000 fans in tournament matches so I never feel significant pressure,” Bauthéac added.
“Melbourne City is a very big match in this competition and we want to fight for trophies and that is why we are all working harder than ever.
“We want to be using our pre-season to fight in every competition possible and to help our talented squad grow to the best it can be.”
“I want to play my style of football and be the best, that’s my biggest pressure.”
MATCH DETAILS
FFA Cup 2018 Round of 32 – Brisbane Roar v Melbourne City
Tuesday, 7 August. Kick-off 7:30pm
Dolphin Stadium, Redcliffe
