The rivalry between the Hyundai A-League’s two newest clubs is building with North Queensland Fury’s marquee signing Robbie Fowler saying his team will not take the ‘hype’ route that Gold Coast United has embarked upon ahead of its first season.
Gold Coast United owner Clive Palmer has famously predicted that his new franchise will go through their first season undefeated and go on the claim the Championship, a statement which has raised some eyebrows among other clubs.
Fowler told Sportal that while he understood that new franchises needed to be enthusiastic in their marketing, the Fury wouldn’t be making any bold predictions ahead of their first season.
“I’m aware of everything that’s been said about Gold Coast. I think we’re doing it the right way. We’re not shooting our mouths off,” he said.
Fowler said that with a new squad like the Fury, it could put too much pressure on the players if expectations were set too high in the opening season.
“If they want to do it that way, then good luck to them. He’s saying they are going to be undefeated and what not, it’s put a little bit of pressure on the players, if you like,” he said.
“He’s obviously confident and good luck to him if he feels that way and if he wants to say, then who am I to argue if he wants to say it? I would prefer to play the low key route and let our football do the talking. Especially the fact we haven’t even kicked a ball yet.”
The two new clubs will find out who they will play in their first Hyundai A-League game when the draw is released next Monday.
