As the Wollongong Wolves have battled away this season, a number of bright spots emerged.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Marcus Beattie has continued to develop into a dangerous striker; Hayden Durose has impressed at the back and youngster Nav Darjani has thrived since earning a first-team call up.
The 19-year-old has always shown potential, representing the Australian under-15 team in 2017, and it didn't take long for the Wolves junior to find his feet.
His first goal came in last week's win over Sydney FC, with Darjani looking to continue building as he chases a long-term goal of an A-League contract.
"The boys in the first team have welcomed me and made me feel confident in what I do," Darjani said. "The coach has given me the freedom to play and show what I can do.
"It's always good to get a goal, it was a confidence boost scoring and I was fortunate to create a few as well. I've always wanted to play in these games and to play at the highest level."
Now that he has his first goal in the top league, Darjani has his eyes fixed on a second in Sunday's clash with Sutherland.
Should the rain clear on Saturday, the match will proceed, with coach Luke Wilkshire challenging the youngster to build on his promising early form.
"We've got a lot of talented juniors coming through the system," Wilkshire said. "The opportunity is there, it's up to them to take it.
"It's the same with Nav. He has his foot in the door but it's one thing to get into the first-grade squad, it's another thing staying there."