Petkovic however took advantage of his limited opportunities and produced numerous man of the match performances in South Melbourne's successful NSL Cup run in the 1995/96 Season.

[1] Following this season, Petkovic would reclaim the number 1 spot and establish himself as one of Australia's finest goalkeepers as he earned half of his Socceroos caps during his time at South Melbourne.

Petkovic would form a key role under Ange Postecoglou's all-conquering South side as they went on to win back-to-back Championships in 1997/1998 and 1998/1999.

His performances for the club led him to be voted by an expert panel as the starting goalkeeper in South Melbourne's team of the century in 2002.

[2] Petkovic's most notable appearance for his national side was when he kept goal in his team's world record breaking 31–0 win over American Samoa.