Words: Garry McKenzie
Image: Chris Simpson

When Luke MacDonald pulled on his goalkeeping gloves in Ipswich last season he helped Northern Fury secure a 2-2 draw against Western Pride.

Fast forward eight months and the debutant gloveman helped Pride to the same scoreline against reigning PlayStation® 4 NPL Queensland premiers Brisbane Strikers.

MacDonald’s end-of-season switch to Pride was set in motion last June when he left Briggs Road with more than just a fine away point.

The 27-year-old said he was struck by the togetherness and camaraderie of the Pride squad under coach Graham Harvey.

"Having played Pride twice last year I could see the culture of the club was really strong," MacDonald said.

"Graham has started something special at Pride."

The last decade has seen MacDonald play for Mt Gravatt Hawks, Rochedale Rovers, Peninsula Power, Capalaba Bulldogs and Souths United before moving to PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland with Northern Fury last season.

MacDonald can also count Ipswich Knights on his CV, a stint which left a lasting impression of his new club’s home.

"A few years ago I played at Knights with a coach I used to work with," MacDonald said.

"I think it’s great to be back here as I feel Ipswich is special."

On his competitive return to Ipswich last weekend MacDonald pulled off the save of the match when he tipped a thunderbolt from Strikers’ Hiroki Omori around the post in a game of few clear-cut chances.

MacDonald said he felt some disappointment about drawing with Strikers given the way his goal was breached.

"Both the goals we conceded were deflections - they weren’t open goals," MacDonald said.

"We deserved to win as I felt we played better on the day."

Pride hope to continue that form on Saturday when they head to Redcliffe to take on Brisbane Roar Youth at AJ Kelly Park.

MacDonald said Pride were confident no matter the opposition.

"Every game we play this year we believe we can win," MacDonald said.

"We proved against Strikers we can match it with the best."