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6.6.2000

PUCA HEADS TO ITALY

Gippsland Falcons Perth-born winger Robbie Puca this week flew to Italy where he's got trials lined up with A.S. Roma and is looking forward to a reunion of sorts with Gabriel Batistuta. Puca was on trial at Fiorentina three years ago where Batistuta, who recently signed with A.S. Roma, was part of the set-up. "Batistuta was great the last time we met, telling me how much he loved Australia and the beaches," the 21-year old Puca said before departing these shores.

Puca is planning to be overseas for about a month, during which time he hopes to realise his dream of playing in Italy. "I'll be playing in a series of games that are put on specifically for young players like myself who hope to catch the eye of Roma, or some other clubs. They always attract a lot of scouts from around Italy and other European countries. So even if I don't crack it with A.S. Roma other doors might open for me." Italy isn't his only option however with further trials on offer in England, "The Falcons have been great, they've arranged an agent for me in Europe and organised various trials, but I'll only go to England if nothing happens in Italy." If Puca isn't picked up overseas, he'll return to Gippsland where he still has he year to run on his current contract.

Having been spotted by the Falcons while playing for Perth, Puca made a dynamic start to his NSL career two years ago and always has his own personal cheer squad when the club travels to Perth. On of his clubs most influential players early in the season, Puca's formed slumped around December last year and after various tests he was diagnosed with diabetes. "I was tired all the time, very lethargic, run down and started losing weight," he said of the illness. "It took me three or four weeks to get it under control. But now I watch my diet, take my injections and I'm feeling really great again. And I'm looking forward to the challenge of doing well in Italy."

Perth have over the years seen a number of talented youngsters rise through their junior and youth teams to move onto bigger and better things. Amongst these are former Young Socceroo captain Tony Carbone (now with Marine Castle United, Singapore), one-time Joey and Young Socceroo striker Vas Kalogeracos (Hamarkameratene, Norway), current Olyroo Chris Coyne (Dundee, Scotland) and national youth team defender Adrian Madaschi (Atalanta, Italy), not to mention the dozens who have passed through NSL ranks.

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