Words: Michael Flynn
Image: Grant Sproule

Palm Beach Sharks attacker Jarrod Kyle believes his side have what it takes to win the 2014 PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues Finals Series.

Kyle scored the decisive goal in the Gold Coast club’s Elimination Final win against Weston Workers on Saturday to set up a next round clash with New South Wales representatives Bonnyrigg White Eagles.

He said the momentum was with him and his teammates as they seek to add a national title to their standout season in PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland competition.

“We’re on a winning streak at the moment, so our morale is quite high and I think that will carry on into the next game,” Kyle said.

“This weekend is going to be one of the toughest games of the season but that’s what we play for.”

“If we can meet that challenge and beat teams like Bonnyrigg then we can show we are one of the best teams in the NPL as well. We’re looking forward to it.”

The 21-year-old, who previously played for English club Sheffield Wednesday as well Hyundai A-League side Sydney FC, added that there was still room for improvement ahead of next weekend’s clash against White Eagles.

“The performance wasn’t the best last night but we grinded it out and got the result in the end, which is what matters.”

“Hopefully we will go down to Sydney next weekend and give a good performance and get the win.”

Kyle explained that Weston Workers pushed Sharks to the very end and offered a different challenge to the Queensland opposition his side usually face.

“There was a big difference in the way they played and their team spirit. Even when they went 2-1 down, they were still putting us under pressure and they never gave up.”

He added that the field also offered its share of challenges for both sides on the night.

“When you first looked at the field it was nice and green and looked like a good surface to play on but once you got on it there were a few bumps and it was a bit uneven.”

“The conditions were tough but we can’t really complain because our own pitch is terrible at the moment,” he said with a laugh.

Kyle played for Palm Beach in 2013 before moving to PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland rivals Brisbane City at the start of the current season.

He explained his mid-season return to Sharks was purely a matter of reducing the travel burden from his home on the Gold Coast.

“The reason why I left City wasn’t because of the playing situation but more a personal and lifestyle choice.”

“I’m not driving at the moment, so I put a lot of strain on my family to get me up there three times a week, so Palm Beach was the easier option.”

“It’s tough to work your way into the squad, but you got to do what you got to do.”

He added that his ambition remains a return to the Hyundai A-League and that he and his teammates were looking to make the most of the opportunities afforded by the high-profile fixtures.

“With this Finals Series, if you perform well you never know who might spot you. We’re all going out there to impress and if something comes up that would be great,” he concluded.