Brisbane Roar super sub Steve Lustica’s team first mentality outweighs personal goals

STEVE Lustica refuses to complain about his lack of game time despite again showing his value in Brisbane Roar’s 2-1 weekend win over Wellington Phoenix.

A-League game between Brisbane Roar and Wellington Phoenix at Cazalys Stadium in Cairns. Roar's first goal scorer Steven Lustica celebrates his goal with team mate Jean Carlos Solorzano who passed him the assist. PICTURE: STEWART McLEAN

STEVE Lustica refuses to complain about his lack of game time despite again showing his value in Brisbane Roar’s 2-1 weekend win over Wellington Phoenix.

Many would argue that Lustica is worthy of a regular place in Brisbane’s best XI, particularly after the good form he displayed as a starter in the Roar’s first two games of the season, both of which were Brisbane wins.

But since then, it has been a test of patience and character for the 24-year-old midfielder.

In the Roar’s subsequent eight matches, Lustica has started only once, twice been an unused substitute and played a total of just 162 minutes.

However, he has made that limited time count, particularly in Cairns on Saturday, when he scored five minutes after replacing Spanish star Corona.

Lustica’s goal was the start of the Roar’s comeback, with striker Jamie Maclaren netting the winner in the 86th minute to lift Brisbane into second spot on the ladder.

“It’s a good feeling to come on and score but most of all, it’s great for us to get the win,” said Lustica, who has very much a team-first attitude regardless of where it leaves him in the selection stakes.

“Whatever the boss (Roar coach John Aloisi) decides, we all respect that because we know that success is built on the whole squad, not just the 11 starters, that players that come on and the players that aren’t involved on match day.

Steve Lustica celebrates scoring against the Phoenix.

“Of course you want to play, but I’ve always been a firm believer that if you keep working hard, you’ll be rewarded.

“I’ve been in this situation before. It’s football. There’s always competition for places. We’ve got quality players in the team, so everyone’s pushing each other.”

Lustica’s Roar contract expires at the end of the season and if his opportunities remain limited, you would not blame him for looking elsewhere in hope of regular first-team football.

However, he wants to stay in Brisbane, sensing the Roar are going places following the off-season appointment of Aloisi.

“I love this club, I love it in Brisbane — I’m happy,” he said.

“Last season we didn’t have a clear message, but with John coming in, it’s been great … the best it’s been since I’ve been in Brisbane.

“Everyone’s together and we’ve got clear structures — we’re all on the same page.

“John’s brought a lot of professionalism to the team. We all understand what he wants.”