Giant Start for Little Marty

His electrifying pace, tantalizing skills and brute strength has been nothing but an asset as Sydney University push for a top three position this season.
The 23-year old Irishman is used to the pressures of big competition, having played three seasons in the top flight in the Irish Premier League for Newry City and Glanavon FC. Having made his debut for Glanavon at the tender age of 19, Marty scored countless goals for the club in cup competitions.
His two year stint at Newry City saw him regularly come off the bench and slot into midfield and wide when needed, even against Scottish heavyweights Glasgow Rangers. Although the club finished eighth in 2009, Marty made his mark showing that he was capable of matching it with the very best Northern Ireland had to offer. His participation in the League Cup final in front of 5,000 diehard fans is proof that height is one factor that won?t stop this youngster in his tracks.
Getting by as a bricklayer with a one year working Visa, Marty came to Australia last September in search of an adventure and to explore the football scene down under. He had no idea what he was getting himself into, except he now knows he made the right decision.
?I was very surprised by the level of support Australians have towards football. I thought I would only see rugby and cricket around here,? said Marty.
?The level of football is good and physical like in Ireland, however the biggest difference is the heat and the fact that so few fans come to the games compared to back home,? he added.
The central midfielder, who scored four goals for Sydney University during pre-season, was also quick to add that he is more than happy with his reception at the Super League club.
?The way we [Sydney University] play is helping me a lot since we play with the ball on the ground,? he said.
?We have excellent team spirit, it is always a good mood at training and I have every desire to help the team win the league.
?John [Head Coach] is very enthusiastic and has allowed me to play my game in behind the strikers which I am thankful for as well,? he added.
Sydney University Head Coach, John Caruana, had nothing but praise for the youngster, highlighting his ?versatility? and ?maturity beyond his age?.
?It was clear that Marty had pedigree having played in the Irish Premier League and he has certainly shown that his experience matches his ability,? said Caruana.
?His high work rate, ability to score goal from midfield, low centre of gravity and his urge to get into tackles makes him an excellent player.
?He has a big heart and always has the right attitude coming into training and games,? he added.
Having stumbled onto the club simply due to it ?being close to home?, Marty may not heighten Sydney University?s chances when it comes to size, but certainly done so when it comes to achieving success this season.
-By Caetano Lima