Footballer’s reward for rising up grades to secure milestone

Although there is a difference between the FQPL1 and NPL competitions, the milestone man said his Ipswich team was more than capable of being in the higher league. Playing finals is first focus.

A LATE surge by the opposition provided some anxious moments for dependable Western Pride footballer Aidan Norris.

However, the former Ipswich Grammar School student had every reason to feel satisfied after his team’s 2-1 victory over Holland Park at the Briggs Road Sporting Complex.

It was the 50th senior game Norris played for Pride, providing a reward for his loyalty rising up the Ipswich club ranks.

“I was very nervous the last few minutes there but happy to get the win,’’ Norris said.

After looking comfortable for most of the Football Queensland Premier League 1 match, Pride suddenly faced a barrage of Holland Park attack resulting in a late goal and threat to snatch a draw.

But Norris helped the Pride defence resist the pressure to enjoy his milestone match.

Norris, who turns 21 this year, started with Pride’s under-16 side in 2016, making his senior team debut three years ago.

He was also part of the premiership-winning Pride under-18 combination in 2017.

“I got about half a season three years ago and last year was probably my first full season,’’ the utility footballer said.

“The first year was tough. We were in the NPL (National Premier Leagues competition) at that stage and ended up getting relegated that year so that was a bit of a learning curve.

“But the last few years have been good trying to get the club back where it should be.’’

Although there is a difference between the FQPL1 and NPL competitions, Norris said Pride were more than capable of playing in the higher league.

“We still have enough quality that if we did make the jump (back into the NPL), I think we would be okay,’’ he said.

“It’s just getting there is half the battle with teams like (Brisbane) City and Rochedale getting around.’’

Western Pride footballer Aidan Norris reflects on playing 50 senior games for the Ipswich club. Picture: David Lems

The latest match was Norris’ 14th game of the season for Pride, after he recently scored his first top grade goal against Sunshine Coast.

“It was a shame we didn’t end up winning the game but the first goal was a big thing,’’ he said.

“Being in (Pride’s grand final winning) 18s was another good thing.’’

Bundaberg-born Norris moved to Ipswich Grammar School in 2016 as a boarder before joining Pride.

He accepts his vital utility role.

“I’m happy to do whatever I have to do for the team I guess,’’ he said.

“Having a left foot helps. I can play left back if I need to.

“I prefer playing in the midfield definitely.’’

Pride striker Wil Asante scored both goals in his team’s latest win. Picture: Kerryn Hyett

Pride striker Wil Asante scored both goals in the second half of a chilly Friday night’s encounter.

The home team dominated the first match back after the community sports lockdown. Pride could easily have been a few goals ahead at the break only for some wayward shooting.

Pride and cross town rivals Ipswich Knights effectively helped each other on Friday night.

Pride’s win consolidated fourth place, keeping a gap over fifth placed Southside Eagles after the Knights beat them 3-1 at Memorial Park.

In Ipswich, Pride ensured Holland Park remained stranded in second last ahead of Wynnum, giving the mid-table Knights some breathing space in their quest to stay out of the relegation zone.

“It’s in our hands to make finals now,’’ Norris said.

“As long as we do our job, we’ll be fine.

“I’d love to make finals. That’s got to be the goal now and then anything can happen in finals.

“If we make it, why can’t we win it?’’

Norris was a keen spectator in 2017 when the Western Pride senior team won its historic NPL grand final against Moreton Bay United at the Briggs Road Sporting Complex.

“That was unreal,’’ he said. “That was the year we won 18s.’’

Western Pride footballer Aidan Norris hopes to get another opportunity to play in the National Premier Leagues competition. Picture: David Lems

Norris is studying urban development while working full-time as a surveyor, based in Milton.

Away from football and his busy work and study life, he likes to go camping.

As for his football future, Norris said he had “no problems so far, no complaints.’’

Norris appreciated the support he had received at Pride.

That included from his first Pride coach Jordan Manning and last year’s head mentor Andrew Catton who worked with Norris at IGS and Pride’s top team.

“I knew him from my time up in Bundaberg,’’ Norris said of Catton.

“He was our coach at Wide Bay and then when he came to work at the school, he gave a few of us a chance and I’m very grateful for what he’s done there.’’

Norris said Manning was also a great coach who taught him a lot about football.

“He was a very sharp lad,’’ he said.

“All the coaches have been very helpful.’’