Lucas Seeks Chance To Shine
Palm Beach Sharks star Chris Lucas admits he is looking at a return to the domestic top flight after an outstanding debut year in NPL Queensland.
Lucas, who is Sharks leading goalscorer with 14 for the campaign, has played at Sharks since his junior days and was a member of former A-League club Gold Coast United’s National Youth League squad.
Lucas made one appearance for United in the A-League as a substitute again Sydney FC and the talented attacker says he is eager to return to the higher level.
“I definitely want to go further with my football – it’s all I want to do at the moment,” said the 21 year old forward.
“I’m trying to get myself out there,” Lucas continued, “I’m just trying to play my best and see if any (scouts) are looking.”
Lucas is already on the radar of Roar coach Mike Mulvey, who he worked with at Gold Coast United.
“I got invited to train with Roar for two weeks. That was a really good experience.”
“I know Mike Mulvey from Gold Coast United, he was my youth league coach back there. It was great that he got me in and gave me a chance.”
While Lucas said he is unlikely to link up with Roar for the upcoming A-League season, he was confident other opportunities would present.
“I was speaking to Mike after the game and he was saying there are probably no more spots in the Roar for this year. But he said he would help me to get where I want to go and hopefully he can speak to a few people for me.”
“It’s always good to know a few people. Garry French (Palm Beach Sharks Technical Director) is going to try and help me out as well. It’s good that I’m getting help from people with good contacts.”
Lucas’s exploits have been the highlight of a difficult first NPL Queensland season for Palm Beach, however he says the standard has improved his game.
“It’s definitely a step above the Gold Coast Premier League. I’ve enjoyed playing in the NPL this year, the standard is definitely much higher.”
“The NPL is definitely good for the young up and coming kids. The standards are higher and it’s good for the club.”
Despite sitting in 9th position on the table, Lucas was confident his side could end their season with a win in their final fixture against Western Pride this Sunday in Ipswich.
“After coming off the back of our biggest win of the season in Rockhampton, we’re definitely looking to beat Western Pride.”
“They beat Olympic, which is a big surprise, they’ll come out firing and it should be a good game.”
Words: Michael Flynn (Football Queensland)
Image: Nick Milton
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