Fornaroli driven by last year’s disappointment

LAST season’s A-League exit still burns Melbourne City star Bruno Fornaroli.

This time, Fornaroli is vowing to fulfil his team’s promise.

City hosts Brisbane Roar tomorrow night in an elimination final that evokes sharp memories of last year’s campaign.

The then fourth-placed finisher hosted Perth Glory in the first week of the finals, only to be turned over by the West Australians 2-0 at AAMI Park. The final was only the third time City had drawn a blank through a prolific campaign — a tough night for City and Fornaroli, who wears his heart on his sleeve.

The passionate striker stormed off the pitch and refused to speak to anyone.

“Of course I was furious,” he said yesterday.

“I don’t like to lose. Wouldn’t you be angry, like me?

“I feel a responsibility. I need to give back to the club, the fans, who are here every week and every day.

“I don’t like to lose and I don’t want to lose this year against Brisbane. I hope this year to go to the grand final and win the trophy.”

The good news for City is that a rejuvenated Fornaroli is ready to go against the Roar.

After a seven-month lay-off with a broken ankle — the worst injury of his career — he says his rehabilitation has been so thorough, it will not hold him back.

“I feel great. After the last few games I’ve started to feel better and my confidence has gone up too. My body has let me play,” he said. “I feel good and ready for finals.”

City has already ticked off one of the club’s major goals this year — a club-record high finish of third and with it an expected Asian Champions League place.

Fornaroli acknowledged the milestone but urged his teammates to narrow their focus to their first finals assignment, with a trip to Newcastle looming next Friday should they win.

And given City has beaten both clubs on their last starts, he said they had every right to be confident.

“If I didn’t think we could win I would talk with the club, go home and have holidays with my family,” he said.

“We can’t think any different. We have to have confidence to beat everyone.

“I believe in my ability and this club’s ability.

“I have a great feeling this year. I can see my teammates focusing in.

“They want to win. They’re training very focused. It’s a great feeling and I hope this year is the year.”