Hard work pays off for young Thunder defender

Young Thunder player enjoys the chance to test himself against Queensland's best

UNDER PRESSURE: South West Queensland Thunder defender Riley Lobwein slides in for a tackle. Picture: Kevin Farmer

FOOTBALL: Riley Lobwein is proof of what is right about the NPL - an opportunity for young players to test themselves at a higher level.

Created in 2013 the NPL acts as a second tier to the A-League and Lobwein is one of many juniors to benefit from the new competition.

The 17-year-old centre back, who joined the South West Queensland Thunder in under-12s, made his senior debut earlier this year and hasn't looked back.

"It's been a great experience - something really special,” Lobwein said.

"Ever since I joined the Thunder I hoped that one day I'd play for the top side.

"I never thought it would come this quickly though. I figured I'd play in the under-18s and 20s for a few seasons.”

Having shown promise in the junior ranks Lobwein was thrust into action earlier this season - replacing an injured Keagan Sheridan.

Despite the pressures of facing Queensland's best players Lobwein enjoyed the challenge.

"It's not easy living up to the expectation of playing at this level, but I do enjoy it,” he said.

"Playing alongside side guys like Keagan (Sheridan) and Frederico (Brusaca) makes it a lot easier though.

"Keagan has trialled overseas a few times and Frederico came to us from Italy. They're both extremely talented players and great people. You couldn't ask for two better players to line up with.”

Despite his rapid rise Lobwein isn't taking anything for granted.

"I've still got to work really hard to keep my place in the side,” he said.

"There are plenty of great young players at the Thunder that are just like me.

"I can't wait to see them join the senior side as well.”

Thunder ready for Roar test

The South West Queensland Thunder senior men face Brisbane Roar on Saturday May 18.

Defender Riley Lobwein said the squad remained positive and confident despite a recent run of losses.

"Things haven't exactly gone our way lately,” he said.

"Everyone is really positive and working hard at training.

"We've learnt a lot during the first half of the season and I think there'll be a big turnaround now.

"Once we get that next win I don't think we will stop.”

With Queensland's best young players at their disposal, Lobwein expects the Roar to be a big challenge.

"I think if stick to the defensive plan we've worked on at training we will be fine,” he said.

"We're very determined and we want to win.”

The Thunder host the Roar at Clive Berghofer Stadium today, kick-off is 5pm.

The Thunder women are away to Western Pride. Their match at Ipswich's Briggs Rd Sporting Complex starts at 5pm.

Originally published as Hard work pays off for young Thunder defender