He known as one of the Hyundai A-League’s quickest players, with his pace comparable to sprint legend Usain Bolt.
But there’s more to the game of Sydney FC young gun Trent Buhagiar than just the blinding speed that leaves opposition defenders in his wake.
Buhagiar showed with his match-winning cameo in the Sky Blues 3-1 win over Wellington Phoenix he is quickly developing an ability to finish that is just as silky as his sprinting.
The 22-year-old came off the bench with his side trailing 1-0 and needing a spark to avoid a third defeat of the campaign.
Less than half an hour later he had inspired his side to a come-from-behind victory that has the Sky Blues needing just one more point to secure a fourth Premiership.
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Buhagiar’s goals in the 88th and 90th minutes demonstrated all of his talents, using breathtaking speed to race clear from the defence before his composure came to the fore with both goals.
“Trent has got a lot of pace but I think he showed tonight the finishes were exceptional as well,” Sky Blues boss Steve Corica told Fox Sports.
“The balls to him were fantastic but he took them really well. The first one excellent, the second one after the rebound he really took that nicely.”
After injury cruelled his debut season at the club in 2018/19, Buhagiar has enjoyed more game time this campaign.
Friday night’s heroics were his 13th appearance of the campaign, which has now yielded three goals and one assist.
“It’s a great feeling. Having such a long time off, three or four months, to come back in that style is a really good feeling,” Sydney FC’s super-sub said.
“I’m Just happy to get the win, it pushes us closer to the title.”
And that title could come as early as Tuesday night when the Sky Blues host Newcastle Jets at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium.
If Sydney avoid defeat in that match they will wrap up their third Premiership in four seasons.
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