Will Dobson described his first home goal for the Newcastle Jets as a dream come true, after scoring in a statement win over A-League glamour club Sydney FC. The 18-year-old broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, playing a one-two with Clayton Taylor before seeing his first effort saved by Sydney keeper Harrison Devenish-Meares, then tapping in the rebound.
Dobson celebrated with a love heart gesture for his family, who were watching from the box. “Coming to games as a kid, you see players scoring goals and celebrating. You dream that it could be you one day,” he said. Fellow academy product Xavier Bertoncello sealed the win in the 84th minute with a stunning strike from the left of the penalty box.
Dobson, who made his debut last season but played only 172 minutes in 12 appearances, has started every game under new coach Mark Milligan. “Mark has been unbelievable with the young players. He says go out there and do your thing. Play with confidence,” Dobson said. Milligan praised the young brigade, noting Bertoncello’s rapid rise from NPL 2 six months ago.
Dobson, usually a winger, dropped into midfield against Sydney due to Max Burgess’s groin injury, combining with fellow teenager Alex Badolato and skipper Kosta Grozos. “I do enjoy playing in the middle of the park. I feel that is where my strength is,” he said.
