Liam Gilmore and Jarrod Hill both played all their junior soccer at the club before helping it step up to statewide competition.

Regular teammates at both club and representative levels, the pair continue to play together having both moved to Melbourne club Beaumaris, which plays in Victoria's state league one.

They couldn't resist the chance to return to their spiritual home of Windsor Park and were among the loudest voices to be heard as Olympic pushed the Strikers all the way in a five-goal thriller.

"It's good to see some faces I've been missing," said Gilmore, 19, who was among the top midfielders in the NPL Tasmania last year.

"It's just a great club. I would have played here for about 12 years and have nothing but fond memories.

"This is my second family. I have so many fond memories here. They are good people and I will always love coming down here.

"I have a lot of friends here but it has also always been somewhere I could just have a kick by myself and escape from everything.

"I think it was time for me to try and express myself, put myself in the shop window and try and do something with my soccer career. Whether that takes a few years, I don't know, but I hope something comes from it."

Born in Belgium when his cycling world champion father Matthew was competing in Europe, Gilmore is relishing his new surrounds.

"It's going really well. It's a good set-up and the coaching staff and everyone at the club have been really welcoming.

"I'd say it's a bit of a step up but not too much and a good challenge in our careers."

The pair are also sharing a house in Box Hill South with another former Roo, Spaniard Nil Sanz, who is playing at left-back with Bulleen in NPL2.

"The other night Jarrod had spaghetti and tomato sauce as a main meal which shows where his diet is at but it's good having that little bit of family over there."

Goalkeeper Hill, who is recovering from an injured ankle, said: "Gilly's been an absolute standout over there. Everyone is raving about him. And he's a massive neat freak which is great. Beaumaris has been really good for us."

Frequently asked whether they had brought their boots, the pair said they were delighted to be home.

"I'm most looking forward to seeing the new lights and also Humpa (Will Humphrey) play at no.6," Hill added.