The club's marquee striker, who has been hampered by a groin problem, could only look on as Ian Ferguson's side fell to a strong Roar line up in Mackay.

Fury were without numerous key players including Brendon Santalab, Ufuk Talay and James Robinson.   Triallists made up the bulk of Fury's team but only one appears to have done enough to earn another bite at the cherry, striker Roy Krishna.

Coach Ferguson told the Townsville Bulletin: "It was a good learning curve for some of the boys that are playing state leagues to actually come up against a quality side as Roar.

"A lot of the boys are just probably not up to that standard yet and I think the Roar, for them, is a good eye opener to see what level you have got to be in the A-League."  

As for Fowler, he admits to frustration at not yet being out on the park but he is reluctant, like his club, to take any risks.

Speaking to the Daily Mercury, he said: "I've another two to three weeks before I'm out there; I don't want to risk it, I want to be right."  

Meanwhile, there is growing speculation that the club are set to part ways with former Wellington Phoenix man Felipe.  

As for Roar, their next pre-season outing takes them to Kawana Waters on Thursday night when they take on an All Japan University Select team.