Words: Brisbane Roar FC
Image: Brisbane Roar FC

Brisbane Roar Youth Coach Josh McCloughan has given his squad a pass mark for their progress so far, but warns he expects improvement in the coming weeks.

Young Roar have faced two of the competition’s likely Premiership contenders in the opening rounds – earning a draw against Brisbane Strikers before succumbing to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of defending Champions Moreton Bay United last weekend.

However, McCloughan is now challenging his players to demonstrate what they have learned from their two testing opening encounters as they prepare to face SWQ Thunder in Round 3.

"We obviously met two pretty good sides in terms of the NPL in the Strikers and Moreton Bay, who were very well structured last week," McCloughan said.

"They have presented different tests for us. I thought we were good in moments and we've got a lot of improvement to make as well.”

"In terms of the context of where we are at in the season and in our preparations, the signs are good.”

"I've told the players not to worry about the end product which is the three points, just stick to the process and our structures and the wins will come on the back of that."

Young Roar have deployed 17 players in the first two games and with a deep talent pool, McCloughan said everyone was on notice to show improvement and learn the lessons the PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues can teach them as young footballers.

"I said to the players if you train well throughout the week and you show me that you are ready to play, I will play you. But there is no certainty (in selection) for anyone," McCloughan explained.

"If they play well at the weekend and do the job then I will continue to keep faith but if they open the door for another opportunity for someone else, I will play them."

Goalkeeper Tomislav Bilic has played both opening games and says he and his team-mates have taken positives from a tough start to the season.

"The NPL is a good competition and good for us to develop as younger players," Bilic said.

"We have come up against older and stronger players but I think all the Roar boys have stepped up.”

"We are getting used to the more physical side of it and we all know that at this stage of our football development it is not about winning or losing.

"The important thing is that we come back the next week switched on again and ready to improve every day,” he concluded.

PlayStation 4 National Premier Leagues 2016 – Round 3
Brisbane Roar FC Youth v SWQ Thunder FC
Sunday, March 13
Cleveland Showgrounds, Redland City
Kick-off at 5:00PM