Former West Ham United striker Richard Garcia helped his Perth Glory side get their A-League season off to a flyer with a 2-1 victory at Wellington Phoenix on Sunday.
Phoenix hosted the Hammers in their summer tour to New Zealand, and although they got the better of West Ham in July, they were unable to see off Perth.
Garcia, who moved to his hometown club this year after a brief spell in America with Minnesota United, played 80 minutes of the Westpac Stadium clash.
The 33-year-old, who came through the Hammers Academy to play 16 league games in claret and blue, is relishing the season ahead, while still keeping an eye on his old Club in England.
He told whufc.com: "I've been really looking forward to the start of the season, it's such a long pre season here and I think everyone is itching to get the league under way.
"I'm hoping to have a great year with my home town team, I'm very happy to be back in Perth playing in front of friends and family.
"I didn't catch West Ham's games on tour here but saw the highlights. It's great for the league whenever big teams come play A-League teams. Football has really grown a lot and is getting stronger every year.
"As for West Ham now I have been watching and they have had a decent start to the season. Hopefully they can continue improving and have a strong season."