Two keepers, one aim.

AIS Keeper Matthew Birighitti is enjoying playing in the VPL.



Former ACTAS and current O'Connor Knights keeper Codey Larkin



Matthew Birighitti (WA) and Codey Larkin (Canberra) are two goalkeepers following in a rich Aussie tradition.



Matthew Birighitti is the current AIS keeper, and has helped steer the young side to third place in the Victorian Premier League.

"It's a tough league. I'm from Western Australia and there's a few good teams and then a gap. In the VPL even the bottom team is a good side, plays good football," said the young keeper who took time out before training at the AIS for a quick chat.

With Central Coast Mariners and AIS keeper Andrew Redmayne injured Matthew is grabbing his opportunity.

Birighitti has an injured ankle himself but is still keen to play on the weekend against Western Suburbs

"I'm enjoying it, I'm loving it, it's great."

"I'd like to get in the Under 20 side, maybe have another year at the AIS. There are few good young keepers around."

You can get Neil Zimmerman's report on the AIS/Western Suburbs game this weekend here on the blog.

Goalkeeper Number 2. Codey Larkin left ACTAS last year after the Academy's trip to China.

"I'm playing with O'Connor Knights. We're in the Fed Cup Semi-Final this weekend against White Eagles. I think we'll win," said Larkin.

Larkin is following the Wellington Phoenix Canberra based Youth team proposal with interest. He is well aware of the possibilities ahead.

"I'm excited about the Youth League, all the young players around Canberra are talking about it. I just hope it comes off.

"I've rang the Central Coast Mariners and Newcastle. I'll move if I get a chance to play. I really want to give my football a go."

Larkin is exactly the sort of player who could benefit from the new Youth League. Particularly if there is a team based in Canberra.