GAWLER Eagles skipper Iradi Baragomwa has had a dream season so far after sealing the State League 2 golden boot award for most goals, and with his side finishing in the top two and staring down the possibility of promotion.
However, the Burundi-born striker has had to make plenty of sacrifices along the way, including leaving his family back in the African nation.
“It’s really hard,” he said.
“I had to miss some games to go back over and see my wife.
“I missed three games, I had lost a family member so I had to travel there.
“My wife, she’s always pushing me to play harder, I was hoping she’d be here by now…I want to give her the golden boot as a gift, as she’s always motivated me.”
Baragomwa sealed the award in the final minor round game, scoring his 23rd goal in the Eagles’ 4-2 victory over minor premier Adelaide Hills – the side they drew nilall with on Saturday night in the first leg of the semi-final.
Winning the trophy was a great feeling for the Eagles’ talisman.
“It was very, very good,” Baragomwa said.
“I couldn’t believe it.
“We have one goal that we’ve set since the beginning of the season, that’s to get
promoted, we’re so hungry for it.
“We know how to play the Hills, we’re looking for the win.”
If the Eagles win the second leg this week, they’ll book a spot in the grand final for a shot at promotion to State League 1.
After receiving plenty of support at Karbeethan Reserve on Saturday, Baragomwa is eager to see more of the Eagles faithful for the away leg this weekend.
“Thanks to the supporters, and we’d love to see more people coming to support
Gawler,” he said.