The match against the Tampines Rovers in Singapore on 31 May kicks off a pre-season schedule which ends with a "bonus" Hyundai A-League clash with the Brisbane Roar at Riverway Stadium on 26 July.

North Queensland Fury FC coach Ian Ferguson is delighted with the pre-season schedule arranged for the team.

"The pre-season match in Singapore is an exciting opportunity for North Queensland Fury FC," Ferguson said. "After watching the Asian Champions League I'm really looking forward to playing in Singapore to see
the talent on offer there."

"We're a new club and if we do reach the level where we have the chance to play in the Asian Champions League then this pre-season tour is fantastic for the players to be exposed to the crowds and the travel."

Ferguson is also looking forward to the challenge of pitting his squad against other Hyundai A-League opponents before the start of the Hyundai A-League 2009/10 season.

"We've got some good games and it will be fantastic to get the players on the pitch and see where we are at," Ferguson said.

"It won't be long and the first round against Sydney FC at Dairy Farmers Stadium will be upon us. It's a very exciting time for me, the players and everyone involved with North Queensland Fury FC."

North Queensland Fury FC CEO Dean Hassall said the pre-season schedule presented the club with a tough preparation for the season ahead and the Asia tour in particular offered exciting opportunities to the club on a range of levels.

"Obviously there is already a strong connection between the Hyundai A-League and Asia through the Asian Champions League and this two match tour is really a way for us to introduce the Fury to a massive football audience," Hassall said.

"It's no secret football has an enormous market in Asia and the Singapore match will certainly help Fury create some important relationships vital to the club's broader success."

North Queensland Fury FC Chairman Don Matheson is also pleased with the opportunity to take the club
to Asia.

"This is a great opportunity to showcase North Queensland Fury FC internationally - particularly in Asia - which everyone knows is huge for exposure of the game," Matheson said.

"It is a fantastic opportunity to level up against good quality teams in our pre-season to help the players hone their skills as at team before the start of the Hyundai A-League."

"It's also a great chance for the players to bond and build real camaraderie on the group."

  • The club also revealed they had lined up a pre-season trial in Darwin against Adelaide United. North Queensland Head of Football Michael Petrillo said the match was not only an important preseason hit-out, but also a great opportunity to showcase the game in the top end. "Fury have been talking with the Northern Territory Government for some time about hosting the match in Darwin," Petrillo said. "It was fantastic that Adelaide United were able to accept North Queensland Fury FC's invitation to join us." The date of the game wasn't revealed in today's statement.