THE Red Devils Premier League soccer squad is full of confidence going into camp this weekend ahead of next week's season opener against Peninsula Power.
This season's Redlands United squad features the signing of local lads: Darren Homer joins his brother Stephen; Scott Bow returns, and Jono Viney partners Rhys Meredith up front. Craig Gibson receives a well-earned elevation into the first team squad, and Ashley Deniss, currently in England representing the Australian U19 school boys team.
Lee Parker comes to the squad from South United and joins captain Cameron Draper in the back line.
The international flavour comes from Brisbane-based Brazilian Igor SaoJose, Costa Rican Arture Mojica, Kiwis Marama Thompson and Adam Chandler, Englishman Michael Lee and not to forget Scottish wizard Graham Fyfe.
In goals, Brad Stout, who last year was the youngest Premier League keeper in the competition, is locked in a fierce battle with Mitch O'Brien for the number one spot.
Come down to the showgrounds at Waterloo Street, Cleveland this Saturday, February 11 between 4.30 and 5.30pm for a great chance to meet, have a kick with and get an autograph from our Premier League squad.
The players have 20 fully autographed balls to give away and team posters to give away. So make sure you get there for a chance to get yours.
After upsetting the Kiwis last year by signing coach Matt Chandler, the Red Devils have done it again by signing one of the best footballers in New Zealand, international George Barba-rouses.
"This is a fabulous signing for Redlands with our Premier League side looking very strong this year and playing quality football already," Devils club president Brett Austin said.
"Gee is a great addition to the club and while being a tremendous footballer he is also a really nice guy as well and I have no doubt he will become a favourite of the Red Army."
Last weekend the Red Devils played host to a series of pre-season games. A brace of goals to Steve Homer and singles to Rhys Meredith, Cameron Draper and Graham Fyfe led the Premier League side to a 5 -1 victory over Southside Eagles.
After the game, coach Matt Chandler said: "Tonight's game was in patches a good performance. We must be happy with our 19 goals scored in four pre-season games to date.
"The unity displayed tonight was vital to our performance. With our pre-season preparations in full swing, we as a group are growing with cohesiveness.
"The new additions to the squad plus the returning players from last year have developed an understanding of each other and are pursuing our playing philosophy."
The Premier Reserves drew nil-all against Southside Eagles and the Premier Youth drew 1-all against the quality Queensland Lions.
Premier Youth coach Tony Brennan was impressed with his young side's performance.
"We are looking forward to the Youth squad having healthy numbers this season," he said.
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