PGFC Academy First Team defender Jacob Young is relishing the prospect of taking on high-flying Bayswater City in Saturday’s NPL WA clash at Frank Drago Reserve (kick-off at 3pm).
The 22-year-old has been a cornerstone of the Academy’s defence this season, making nine appearances and playing a key role in helping the youngsters secure four clean sheets in their last six outings.
And just as they did last year, he believes they have the potential to really hit their straps in the second half of the season, starting this weekend against second-placed Baysie.
“In terms of team performances, every week we have quality names on the team sheet and we have the potential to beat any team in the league,” he said.
“”It’s just a case of unlocking that potential at the moment and I think that will come this week.
“I think it’ll be similar to the last time we played them [a 2-2 draw in Round One].
“Defensively, we’ve been solid, so hopefully we won’t concede two this time around.
“It’ll be two fast-paced attacking teams going head-to-head, so hopefully it’ll be a good watch and we’re really hoping for three points to bounce back after a disappointing draw against Gwelup last weekend.”
Ona personal note, the likeable former Cockburn City youth player is simply delighted to be back out on the field after suffering more than his fair share of bad luck with injuries during a two-year stint at German club Hoffenheim.
And he’s also adjusted seamlessly to playing alongside a number of different centre-back partners over the course of the season, including Daniel Walsh, Judd Macdougall, Aidan Coyne and Jacob Muir.
“Coming back to Australia and having the opportunity to play consistent football has been really great for myself,” he said.
“I’m really happy to be back playing football again and I think that has shown in some of the performances.
“It’s different playing with different people most weeks, but every one of these players is a great player, so it honestly doesn’t make too much of a difference; they’re always at a high level.
“I’ve been fortunate to play in some good centre-back partnerships over this season.”
Ago Mujic’s youngsters will be up against a City side buoyed by back-to-back wins over Perth SC and Balcatta Etna.
Their tally of 27 goals makes them the joint-top scorers in the competition, with ex-Glory man Ndumba Makeche, Gordon Smith and Jon Stynes sharing 22 of those between them.
Ahead of the First Team game, the PGFC Academy Under-18s and Under-20s will be looking to cement top spot in their respective competitions – their games will get underway at 11am (Under-18s) and 1pm (Under-20s).
(picture courtesy of Tom McCarthy)
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