Western Sydney Wanderers' hero GolGol Mebrahtu deflected praise after his stunning performance and winning goal in their Westfield FFA Cup triumph over Brisbane Roar on Tuesday night.
After over a year out with a terrible knee injury, the striker was dangerous all night for the Red and Black popping up late to snatch a winner over Brisbane Roar.
It was a fairytale return for Mebrahtu in an intense FFA Cup clash at Pepper Stadium.
FFA Cup wrap: Wanderers progress
“Look, at the end of the day football’s a team sport,” the 24-year-old forward told Fox Sports deflecting praise away from him.
“Credit to Brisbane they gave us a good fight but our boys dug deep and held on and we’re just really happy to finish with a win.
“We want to achieve a title but from a personal goal it’s always nice and it is the icing on the cake.
Coach Tony Popovic said he was delighted for Mebrahtu who he said had come through a very tough rehab over the last year.
“He’s had a tough year, he’s worked extremely hard. It’s a lonely time when you do an ACL [knee injury] to come back and score a goal... it’s the first time he’s played 70 odd minutes in a couple of years.
“He’ll be sore for a good week I’m sure!”.
The Wanderers coach added: “It’s a fantastic Cup competition but last year we went out in the first round so we’re delighted.
“We’ve only been going for a short period so I’m sure the players will be very tired but it’s great for our fans to have something to celebrate.”
The 1-0 win has Wanderers now eying a Round of 16 clash.
“They're enjoying their football and this is a little bit of a reward for the players. But our goal ultimately is to be prepared for October 8 [and the A-League round one]," said Popovic.
