Youngsters Bolster Strikers Squad

Brad Savage (Getty)

Words: Steve Pitman
Image: Getty Images

Brisbane Strikers coach Kevin A’herne-Evans has added a further six young talents to his squad for the 2015 PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland season.

Defenders David Roby and Brad Savage (pictured), attackers Luke Marsh and Jesse Wiemers and midfielder Fraser Hills – all under 20 – have all been promoted to the senior squad from Strikers’ Youth Men’s and Under 18 ranks.

Roby and Savage are the more familiar of the promotions after contributing a combined five league appearances in the senior side in 2014, as well as forming part of Strikers' Westfield FFA Cup campaign.

Midfielder Jed Zanos also joins the club from rivals Sunshine Coast FC, where he made a total of 19 appearances under A’herne-Evans last campaign.

A’herne-Evans said he was looking forward to the young players making the most of their opportunities in 2015.

“I am delighted with the signings of these players who, in my opinion, have the ability and characteristics necessary to go on and represent our club for a number of years”, A’Herne-Evans said.

“Developing and promoting junior players is rewarding on so many levels, but there is something special about being in a coaching group that gives young players an opportunity, then watching them compete and prove themselves against proven players.”

“Coaches and clubs are often cautious when it comes to giving juniors an opportunity. Fortunately for these and many more aspiring young players at this proud club we have no such reservations.”

A’herne-Evans outlined the attributes of his latest signings, starting with the two defenders.

“Savage is a tenacious defender who displays his passion and desire to compete and gives opposition wingers as difficult a game as possible,” he explained.

“Even though I was not at this club last year, I know that when called upon to play in the first team he has not looked out of place.”

“Roby is returning from a serious broken leg sustained this year. He has been tremendously positive during his rehabilitation thus far, which is a great reflection on his personal characteristics, and he will no doubt be keen to get back training and playing in the new year”.

A’herne-Evans also expressed the promising potential of the three other promoted players.

“Marshy has certainly caught the eye so far in pre-season”, A’Herne-Evans said. “He is a potent goal scorer who is always on the move in and around the box and is well-rounded when it comes to finishing.

“Jesse Wiemers is a winger who has raw power and explosive speed,. His direct approach keeps defenders honest. He thrives on getting the ball into dangerous areas and also has a keen eye for goal.

“Fraser Hills is a promising midfield player. His movement off the ball ensures he is a constant headache for opposition midfielders. He is a good passer of the ball and again is very tenacious in duelling for it”.

He added that the final piece of the puzzle, Zanos, was an outstanding contributor to Fire last season and has plenty to offer his new club.

“Jed is only seventeen and was awarded the Rising Star award for the Fire in 2014”, A’Herne-Evans explained.

“He displays tremendous athleticism and a magnificent ability to pick-pocket the opposition and immediately transition into attack. I am very happy that Jed has committed to us for the 2015 season”.

The signings take the total of confirmed players for Strikers 2015 squad to 21 players.




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