It was quite the bounce back season for Luka Jovanović after finishing as the Young Reds’ top-scorer in the 2022 NPL SA.
The 17-year-old attacker missed the entirety of last campaign, suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2020.
But the 17-year-old demonstrated his resilience in spades, netting 12 goals in 22 appearances, while operating across the front three and as an attacking midfielder in some matches this year.
He also signed a scholarship contract with the senior side at the beginning of July until the end of the Isuzu UTE A-League 2023/24 season.
Jovanović was personally delighted with his production in front of goal and was quick to attribute his success to his teammates.
“Definitely a great comeback season by me and obviously nothing could be done without the team,” he said.
“I’m happy with my season and I couldn’t be happier to play with a better team to be honest.”
Indeed, his final goal of the regular season occurred on Saturday against West Torrens Birkalla in a 4-1 win.
In doing so, Adelaide United Youth secured its maiden finals berth since 2018.
Jovanović believed the accomplishment should not be understated, especially after enduring six defeats in the opening eight rounds.
“It’s a massive achievement considering we had a very rocky start to the year,” he explained.
“We had a massive second half of the season, and the boys just played unbelievable in the second half the season.
“It’s great achievement considering we haven’t played finals for four years, it’s a great experience for the Club.”
Airton Andrioli’s side now has an elimination final with MetroStars.
In the two previous meetings this season both teams prevailed 3-2, with Jovanović registering three assists in the triumph last month.
The attacker was expecting nothing less than a difficult game against an experienced outfit.
“MetroStars is always a tough team to play no matter the circumstance,” he said.
“So we’ll 100 percent we’re going to be ready and hopefully we can get the win and progress through.
“In a finals game you have to always be ready, no one can be sleeping and the whole team has to be ready and we’ll have to play for the team.”
