Melbourne Victory striker Kenny Athiu is relishing the opportunity to challenge some of Asia’s best in the Champions League.
Athiu made his third appearance for Victory in Tuesday’s 3-3 draw with Ulsan Hyundai on Match Day 1, replacing Besart Berisha in the 71st minute.
The 25-year-old looked lively up front and was disappointed not to take one of the handful of chances that fell his way.
“I was glad to come on and contribute to the team,” Athiu said.
“I was hoping to score the winning goal but unfortunately it didn’t come, but it was exciting.
“I did have a number of chances and with more sharpness and more game time I’ll start putting those chances away in the future.”
Athiu signed for Victory in October last year after starring for Heidelberg United in both the National Premier League and the FFA Cup.
His FFA Cup goal to knock Perth Glory out of the competition put him on the radar of numerous Hyundai A-League clubs.
Athiu says stepping up to become a professional is a reward for the hard work he put in at state-level football.
“I’m enjoying every minute of it, that’s the way I’m looking at it.
“Looking back, all the work I’ve been putting in the last couple of years is starting to work out so I’m really happy with that.”
WATCH: Kenny’s famous FFA Cup goal
