Head Coach John Aloisi says Saturday night’s pre-season clash with Peninsula Power is just what his side needs as the Hyundai A-League draws nearer.
The Round 1 fixture against the Central Coast Mariners at Suncorp Stadium is only a matter of weeks away, and a confidence-filled Power, who recently polished off an undefeated FQPL campaign, will be keen to put their best foot forward against Hyundai A-League opposition.
Gates will be open at A.J. Kelly Park from 2:30pm, with players to be available for a signing session at 3:25pm before kick-off at 5pm.
“It will be a good test because they [Peninsula Power] have had a really good season,” Head Coach John Aloisi said.
“I’ve seen a little bit of them, and they play good football which is good for us.
“We’ve worked hard this week, and to top it off with a game, is good to keep working on what we’ve been working on throughout pre-season.”
The Roar have strung together a number of impressive performances throughout pre-season – many against fellow Hyundai A-League sides.
Saturday night will Aloisi’s side’s first contest since a strong showing in a 1-1 draw in regional Victoria against defending champions Melbourne Victory a fortnight ago.
It was a new recruit in Adam Taggart who found the back of the net for the boys in orange that day – an indication that the nine-time Socceroo, and fellow recruits, are slotting in seamlessly to the Roar style.
“The new facility and the players’ lounge has really helped the players bond. In terms of the new players gelling, it takes a bit of time, especially for the players up front, but we’ve started to see the rewards in the last few games,” Aloisi continued.
“We’ve created a lot of opportunities and scored some goals. The more they play together, the better the understanding will be.
“This game is another big test for the players as well as a chance for the new players to keep gelling and put in another good performance.”
The Roar return to the Peninsula region for the first time since last month’s FFA Cup Round of 32 clash at Redcliffe’s Dolphin Stadium, which drew a record crowd of more than 6,000 people.
“It was a great turnout for the FFA Cup game. In the last few years, our Youth and Westfield W-League sides have played in the region and it’s good to get out there again,” Aloisi said.
“I’m sure there’ll be a lot of support there on Saturday to see not only how we’re tracking but how their home side matches up against a Hyundai A-League side.”
Our Head Coach also provided an injury update on key players Avram Papadopoulos and Brett Holman.
Papadopoulos last took the field in Round 22 last season while Holman has been sidelined throughout pre-season.
“Avram’s recovery is going well – he won’t be a part of this game but it looks like he could be a part of the next one,” Aloisi continued.
“Brett is progressing nicely but we’re still not sure on a date that’ll he able to start playing.”
