It’s been a long and tough road back for the super-clever forward, who has had to fight his way back from a serious hamstring injury suffered in a match simulation drill during the club’s pre-season campaign.
But while it will be Patrick’s first AFL appearance for 2013, GC SUNS General Manager of Football Operations Marcus Ashcroft believes the exciting goal-sneak will be a great addition for the host team after a series of polished performances with Shaun Hart’s NEAFL squad.
“Liam has been on the brink of senior selection for a couple of weeks now, and after another solid performance against the Brisbane Lions reserves, he has been rewarded with a spot in the team against North Melbourne this Saturday night,” Ashcroft said.
While Patrick’s opportunity comes as a result of Brandon Matera suffering a serious ankle injury against Geelong last weekend, Ashcroft believes there is no better ready-made replacement than the “Lajamanu Lightning Bolt”.
“Unfortunately Brandon is likely to be out of action for a lengthy period, but while one door shuts another door opens for someone to come in and fill the void,” he said.
“We have every confidence in Liam and believe he is ready to make the most of the opportunity given to him this weekend.”
For Patrick, the chance to finally taste senior footy again is a moment he’ll try to cherish after making his first return to the competitive circuit against Southport in the NEAFL competition last month.
“I’m certainly very excited and just can’t wait to get out there on Saturday night,” said Patrick.
“It’s was a pretty tough start to the year after the injuring the hamstring, but my body is feeling really good and I’m really looking forward to going up against the Kangaroos and doing what I can do help my team kick the winning score.”
However Patrick understands he won’t have too much time to take it all in, with the lively forward telling goldcoastfc.au he’ll need to be alert from the opening bounce against the high-scoring Kangaroos.
“They’re a very tough side, and unfortunately we can’t allow them too many opportunities around goals because they will make us pay on the scoreboard,” Patrick said.
“It’s definitely shaping up as a great contest and I can’t wait to run out and play my role for the team.”
