Strikers sharpshooter Pengelly pumped for Phoenix FFA Cup test
Brisbane Strikers marksman Andy Pengelly is aiming to secure an A-League contract by maintaining his form against Wellington Phoenix in the FFA Cup
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Inspired by the deeds of his good friend Dylan Wenzel-Halls, Andy Pengelly has an ideal chance to push for an A-League contract Wednesday when the Brisbane Strikers host Wellington Phoenix at Perry Park.
Pengelly, 22, has been in rare form for the Strikers this year. He has already set an NPL Queensland record for most goals in a season with 36 — including four last Saturday against Roar Youth ¬ and has also found the back of the net nine times in FFA Cup preliminary rounds.
Desperate to test himself against A-League opposition, Pengelly has that opportunity in tonight’s Cup round of 32 clash against the Phoenix, whose backline includes former Brisbane Roar star Luke DeVere and ex-English Premier League hardman Steven Taylor.
Stream every game of The FFA Cup Round of 32 LIVE & Anytime on KAYO SPORTS. Get your 14 day free trial & start streaming instantly
“They’re probably the best defenders I’ll have played against,” Pengelly said.
“This will be a completely new challenge for me. I’m looking forward to it and seeing where I stand against them.
“It’s an opportunity for everyone playing to put themselves out there and show what they’re about. It’s good to be giving myself a test.”
If Pengelly needs any reminder that NPL goals can secure him an A-League gig, he only has to think of his former Western Pride teammate Wenzel-Halls.
Goals galore from Wenzel-Halls in the NPLQ could no longer be ignored by the Roar, who offered him a contract last year.
And Wenzel-Halls didn’t disappoint, netting five A-League goals Brisbane last season.
“What Dylan’s done, and a couple of other NPL players who have made the transition to the A-League, their success means it’s achievable,” Pengelly said.
“I want to achieve that eventually by keeping the way I’m going.”
WEDNESDAY NIGHT’S FFA CUP ROUND OF 32 MATCHES
Sydney FC v Brisbane Roar, Leichhardt Oval, 7.30pm. Live on Kayo
Brisbane Strikers v Wellington Phoenix, Perry Park, 7.30pm. Live on Kayo
Melbourne Knights v Adelaide United, Knights Stadium, 7.30pm. Live on Fox Sports 507 and Kayo
Melbourne Victory v Newcastle Jets, AAMI Park, 7.30pm. Live on Kayo
Perth Glory v Western Sydney Wanderers, Dorrien Gardens, 8pm. Live on Kayo
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