My Brother's Keeper

Cuminao Brothers (OLY)

Words & Image: Matt Dorman, Olympic FC

Brothers James and Brandon Cuminao aspire to further opportunities at Olympic FC after appearing together for the first time in NPL Queensland last weekend.

Central defender James, the older of the pair, and goalkeeper Brandon both started at Goodwin Park in hard fought 2-all draw with Brisbane Roar NYL. The fixture also marked Brandon’s starting debut for the Yeronga-based club.

The younger Cuminao had previously appeared off the bench in Townsville against Northern Fury last season and, with further senior squad experience now behind him, turned in an impressive performance on Friday night.

“I was nervous at the start of the game but I’ve had a lot of training time around the first team so it just became another game,” Brandon said.

“Every session I’m with the first team it becomes more comfortable and it feels like it’s my own team so there’s really no reason for me to get nervous anymore.”

Despite having to settle for a point after coming from a goal down to lead late in the match, Brandon believed Olympic had begun to discover improved form – and said having brother James ahead of him in defence helped.

“It’s always good to have a family member on the team just for the extra confidence,” the talented ‘keeper said.

“The second goal (we conceded) was a little bit unlucky but they’re a good side and that’s what you expect from sharp players who are training every day.”

“But we played well and did well to come back and score a couple.”

James, meanwhile, has made several appearances already this season and was suitably impressed with his brother’s performance.

“It was probably the best game I’ve seen him play,” the defender said, “Especially against Roar as well, it was a good opportunity for him.

“I don’t mean any disrespect to (regular goalkeeper Ryan) Meskell but he’s got some competition from my brother!”

The 18-year-old spent 2013 as part of the QAS program but has returned to Olympic to provide crucial support to regular central defensive pair Matt Mundy and Darren Gray.

James was himself dismissed earlier in the season and the versatile player knows injury and suspension, which ruled Mundy out of facing his former club, can thrust him into the starting side at any time.

“Opportunities will come,” James said, “Hopefully I did enough to let the coaches know I’m here if something happens again.”

When asked whether he hopes his representative experience at the QAS will potentially drive a career on to the likes of Brisbane Roar, James was philosophical.

“I will take my opportunities as they come but I’m trying to concentrate off the field as well because things might only come once in your lifetime,” he said.

“If the chance comes I will gladly take it but we will see what happens.”




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