Fury to move on with style

THE Northern Fury are hopeful of bidding farewell to the Townsville Sports Reserve in winning style.

The Fury host Queensland NPL minor premiership contenders Brisbane Strikers tonight in what will be their last game at the Sports Reserve, with the Fury moving into Brolga Park from next season.

Fury coach Paul Roncato says tonight’s game will be a poignant occasion, given the North Ward venue has been the scene of many highs and lows.

“It’s a great place to watch a game of football, it’s up there with the A- League pitches,” Roncato said.

“It will be sad not watching NPL games there anymore, and that’s Brolga Park.

“We’re moving over to good venue and it’s exciting.

“But we’ll still miss the Sports Reserve because it’s just got it all.”

The Fury want to make the most of the occasion by springing an upset on the Strikers, who are battling for the NPL minor premiership with Gold Coast City.

Finals is now out of the question for the Fury following last weekend’s 5- 1 loss to Western Pride, but the return of experienced players plus a burning desire to finish 2017 on a high has given Roncato hope they can still raise eyebrows.

“We can basically put an end to the Strikers’ chances of getting that minor premiership,” Roncato said.

“We would love nothing better than being party spoilers.

“That being said, we know it doesn’t get any easier from last nothing against a weekend, and the Strikers will be coming to play full steam.

“This game is so crucial for them, and pressure can do funny things to a team.

“We have no pressure at all, we have nothing to lose and I’ve been telling the boys to enjoy the moment.

“And if the Strikers do win, we want to make sure they’ve had to work really hard for it.”

Midfielder Jono Bagley and defender Mitch Maher return from injury after missing last weekend’s Pride thumping, on the back of the Fury’s 2- 2 draw against Gold Coast and 3- 0 win over SWQ Thunder.

“Credit to the Pride who are coming home strong, but we learned a few lessons,” Roncato said.

“We have 21 competition points which is far more than last year, and I believe we can get some more before the season is done.”

Tonight’s kick- off is 7pm.