Berisha fit for Victory clash

Striker Besart Berisha (right) models the Roar's new kit with teammates Matt Smith (centre) and Shane Stefanutto. Picture: Glenn Barnes Source: CourierMail

BRISBANE roar striker Besart Berisha has declared himself fit to play in Saturday’s game against Melbourne Victory at North Ipswich Reserve.

After being relegated to the sidelines last weekend while the Roar beat the Mariners, Berisha said he was "feeling strong like never before". 

"I am completely fit and definitely playing, just had a small issue with my ankle," he said.

"I’m feeling really ready to fire up."

Berisha said new additions including the return of Matt McKay would add extra spark and depth to the team this season.

"It’s terrific to have Matt on board," he said.

"As a striker it’s fantastic to have all these wonderful players around you, there’s a great feeling among the team at the moment."

Berisha was alongside captain Matt Smith and defender Shane Stefanutto in Brisbane’s Queen Street Mall yesterday for the official launch of the Roar’s new playing kits.

They were joined by W-League players Clare Polkinghorne, Laura Alleway and Emily Gielnik.

Both teams have kept Roar’s traditional orange colour for home games, while the away strip has changed from black to a predominately white jersey.

The men also have a special event kit featuring a grey jersey with an orange strip which will be debuted on Saturday.

Roar and Matilda’s captain Polkinghorne said the team was ready to build on last season, which saw them finishing minor premiers before losing the semi-final to Sydney FC.

"We’re carrying high expectations into the season and will start from a really good platform,’’ she said.

"The team’s got good depth, we’ve retained most of our core group but have a few new young girls as well which is exciting."

Polkinghorne said she expected the team’s long standing rivalry with Sydney FC to intensify after the semi-final result.

"Our games against them will definitely be the ones to look forward to."