Former Brisbane Strikers player and current Brisbane Roar defender Shane Stefanutto revelled in his return to Perry Park on Wednesday night for a pre-season friendly.

Roar humbled Strikers 11-0 in a professional performance as they continued preparations for the forthcoming A-League season – Stefanutto putting in an efficient 90 minute shift at left fullback.

Asked whether he followed his former club in the NPL, Stefanutto said he maintained a broad interest in the league and the fortunes of both Strikers and Northern Fury, where he spent a season prior to joining Roar.

“I keep an eye on the NPL in general,” Stefanutto said, “I think it’s a really important league. It’s a great set-up and I hope it continues to grow.”

Conceding the score line on Wednesday didn’t flatter the club he represented for six seasons in the old National Soccer League, Stefanutto said it was great to once again see the stands packed at Perry Park.

“It is great to be here,” Stefanutto said, “I love coming back every year and I’m glad we do come back here.”

“It’s a club close to my heart and it all started here for me, so I have a lot to be thankful for at the Brisbane Strikers and a lot of good memories.”

Stefanutto made his senior national league debut for Strikers the year after the club’s famous 1997 grand final triumph.

He went on to play professionally in Europe and earn three Socceroos caps before returning to the play in the A-League in 2009.

Stefanutto alluded to Brisbane Strikers talent development record, with Socceroos Michael Zullo, Matt McKay, Jade North, Matt Smith and Jon McKain all playing for the club before going on to higher honours.

“I think it’s great that Strikers continue to be a really good developing ground for players in the NPL,” Stefanutto said.

“I know they are a high quality team in the NPL competition. I think they are doing everything right and they are an important part of football in Queensland.”

“Certainly one day I would love to see a little derby of Roar v Strikers, but that’s probably a long way off, I’d say, for Brisbane to sustain two A-league teams.”

“But it’s great they are in the NPL and I hope they go on to win it this year,” Stefanutto admitted.

Stefanutto said the long-rumoured FFA Cup competition could provide a more realistic derby match-up in the near future.

“I’ve heard the rumours about a cup and I can’t wait for it to start,” Stefanutto said. “I think it will be a great initiative – local clubs playing against Roar in competitive games. There will be good atmospheres and packed houses.”

Stefanutto said he was keeping tabs on another former club now competing in the NPL – Northern Fury.

“I see Fury playing in front of some good crowds up in Townsville. They have a good coach and they seem to be doing everything right.”

“There are good people up there and it’s a good place to play football – so I keep an eye on them.”

“They are close to my heart like all clubs I’ve played for. I’ve got a special place for them and I have the jersey at home. They were special times,” Stefanutto said.

 

Words: Michael Flynn (Football Queensland)
Image: Brisbane Strikers