Former Socceroo Paul Okon Calls On Youngsters To Attend Gold Coast-Sydney FC Clash

Former Socceroo captain, Paul Okon, has called on Gold Coast youngsters to witness some of Australia’s finest footballers strut their stuff at Skilled Park this Saturday evening, when Gold Coast United take on Sydney FC in the match of the round.

Admission to the game is free for youngsters under 15 years of age (when accompanied by a paying adult), and the United Assistant Coach believes the massive junior football participation base on the Gold Coast should take advantage of the free offer, and take home some tips from the experts.

“Just look at some of the players on show; Culina, Smeltz, Porter, Colosimo, Bridge, Brosque – the list goes on,” Okon said.

He continued: “If I made a list of the top ten players in the A-League then I would have to say that at least half will be playing in the game on Saturday.

“Young players here on the Gold Coast can learn a lot just by watching the movement and skill of these players. Their technique, the things they do, the runs they make – seeing this up close during the intensity of a match is what gives young supporters and players ideas on how to improve their own game.

“Many of the players this weekend will have one eye on a potential Socceroo call-up so we can expect them to display their best form.

“It’s a great opportunity for local youngsters to not only see some great players, but a great match. It’s first versus third and there’s a lot at stake, so it has all the ingredients you look for in a top game.

“Sydney are on fire at the moment and have a forward line who are causing problems for opposition teams wherever they go. For our part, naturally we have plenty of our own dangerous players who have a point to prove and pride to restore.”

One of the finest footballers Australia has ever produced, Okon’s message to youngsters who had not yet witnessed their local team in action was a simple one.

“If you’ve never been to a Gold Coast United game, then you couldn’t pick a better match than this to come and sample the action for the first time.

“Get there, witness it for yourself and see what it takes to make it to professional level.

“You’ll be part of the atmosphere that makes football unique and you’ll be supporting your local team, which is so important. That’s what being a football player or supporter is all about,” he said.

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