He hasn’t quite put the pens and pencils away with his HSC exams still ahead of him, but young Sydney FC signing, Chris Payne is facing a big test of a different kind this Saturdayagainst the Melbourne Victory.
He hasn-t quite put the pens and pencils away with his HSC exams still ahead of him, but young Sydney FC signing, Chris Payne is facing a big test of a different kind this Saturday, with the teenage sensation set to make his Hyundai A-League debut in Sydney-s opening round clash with arch-rival Melbourne.
Payne didn-t expect to be thrown into the mix so soon, playing alongside the likes of John Aloisi, Mark Bridge, Alex Brosque and Brendon Santalab, but with all of those strikers unavailable for Sydney-s first game of the season, the rising star plans to take his opportunity.
“I-ve just got to go out there and do my best and see what happens,” said Payne. “There-s a bit of pressure I suppose, but I-m just really looking forward to playing.”
The former Manly United forward impressed during a number of guest appearances for Sydney during its pre-season campaign, but he knows making an impression in the A-League will be a different story all together.
“It-s a dream come true to be part of the Sydney side,” he said. “The A-League is getting stronger every season and I-m just excited to be a part of it.”
Sydney Coach, John Kosmina is realistic about the challenge facing his young charge, but believes he has the ability to make it as a professional footballer.
“Payney has a good head on his shoulders,” Kosmina explained. “ He needs to keep working hard and developing his game, but the kid showed us a bit during the trials and I think he has a bright future.”
Sydney FC will face-off against the Melbourne Victory in round one of the Hyundai A-League this Saturday night at the Sydney Football Stadium, with kick off at 7pm.
Tickets for the blockbuster match are currently on sale and can be purchased through Ticketek.
