The Maitland Magpies face a huge but exciting test when they host Chinese professional football club Shenzhen Ledman FC on Thursday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Shenzen Ledman are run by Newcastle Jets owner Martin Lee and won promotion last year to the Chinese League Two, the third tier in Chinese football.
Magpies assistant coach Reece Thompson said the trial match was a coup for the club and organised through fellow assistant coach and player Matt Thompson’s extensive connections.
“It is a fantastic opportunity for the players to play against a professional team from overseas. From the club’s perspective it is a real promotional coup and a great way to increase our exposure,” he said.
The Magpies have named a 16-man squad with a mixture of youth and experience.
New arrivals Andrew Pawiak, 21, and Thomas Duggan, 16, will be two players keen to perform under the spotlight of an Asian team.
“Andrew is a former Newcastle Jets Youth captain and at 21 is still very keen to put his name forward to play at a higher level. He is a very good player coming off the bench a couple of times for the senior Jets team,” he said.
“This is a great opportunity for him to get some more exposure.
“Thomas Duggan is just 16 and another very exciting prospect who joined us from Broadmeadow in the off-season. He is super talented and has really fitted in well at the club.
“I suppose the thing we are saying to the players is enjoy the experience.”
Thompson said there were plenty of experienced and quality players in the team to support the younger players.
“Players like Shane Cansdell-Sherriff who has experience overseas, Ryan Clarke and Carl Thornton are all quality players with plenty of experience. Of course Matt (Thompson) is a real leader with international experience and a great football brain.”
Thompson said fans could expect a fast-paced and skillful style of play from the Chinese visitors.
“They will be looking for quick movement of the ball and will be fast,” he said.
Action at Cooks Square Park starts at 5.30pm with a junior clash between Maitland FC 13s and Hunter Valley Hawks, followed by the main game at 7pm. Tickets are $10 for adults, entry is free for children under 16.
