Adelaide United fans witnessed a special moment on the weekend, as Brody Burkitt announced himself on the A-League stage in unforgettable fashion – scoring a hat-trick, including a dramatic late winner, in a thrilling victory over Brisbane Roar.
For the 19-year-old, it was a night he will never forget – but one he insists was always about the team first.
“It’s amazing, honestly,” Burkitt said. “It’s a dream come true. But my main focus was the three points. During the game, I just treated it like another match, worked hard, and tried to make an impact.”
That impact was undeniable. Two goals to level the contest, then a third that sent the away fans at Suncorp Stadium into raptures.
“Honestly, so much was going through my mind,” he said of the winning goal. “I remembered the last time Brisbane were here and scored a late winner and went crazy. So I thought I’d give it back a bit. The crowd was giving me some stick – so yeah, I soaked it in.”
While the goals will live long in the memory, Burkitt was quick to deflect praise toward those around him – particularly the environment Adelaide United has created for young players.
“Seeing players like Kusini Yengi, Ryan Kitto, Craig Goodwin – it gives you belief,” he said. “They’ve come through the system, and it shows you it’s not impossible. The older boys give me great values on and off the pitch, and that helps a lot.”
Despite his rapid rise, Burkitt keeps his life deliberately simple away from football.
“I don’t actually watch that much football,” he admitted. “I like to keep a separation so I don’t overthink things. When it’s football time, I do my job. Away from that, I love the beach and spending time with my mates – I’m surrounded by good people.”
Those people were front and centre after the final whistle, with Burkitt describing the reaction from teammates as one of the most meaningful parts of the night.
“All of them got around me,” he said. “They push me every day at training, make me work hard, and support me. The hat-trick was great, but again, the three points were the main focus. We want finals, and there’s still a lot of the season ahead.”
A special mention also went to his carpool partner Ryan Kitto, with the pair sharing a light-hearted moment after both scoring similar goals in recent weeks.
“We joked about it,” Burkitt laughed. “I told him earlier in the season he should’ve cut one back to me – so that conversation in the car will be a good one.”
Behind the scenes, Burkitt credits the coaching staff and playing group for creating an environment where he can play with freedom and confidence.
“They’ve had so much belief in me,” he said. “They’ve been patient, put a lot of work into me, and helped me through tough periods. That belief makes it easier when you step out there.”
With momentum building and another challenge ahead, Burkitt’s hunger hasn’t faded.
“Always hungry,” he said. “If it’s not working with my feet, it’s working in my head. I’ll always work hard.”
And as for what he’ll be doing with the signed match ball?
“I’m not even sure yet,” he smiled. “Probably keep it in my room… or the garage.”
One thing is certain – Brody Burkitt’s first A-League hat-trick is a moment that signals the arrival of another exciting young Red.
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