Carlo Armiento is optimistic Adelaide United Youth can carry the momentum from their win over West Adelaide into their clash with Para Hills Knights at The Paddocks on Saturday.
The Young Reds returned to form after a 4-2 victory over West at the weekend.
Paul Pezos’ side had a healthy three-goal lead just after the interval before conceding twice in quick succession. However, Pacifique Niyongabire provided an angled finish to seal what was a rather dominant display.
Armiento, who set up United’s third goal with a beautifully driven cross into the box, said the win came at the perfect time.
“We thought we played pretty well against Adelaide City but we were just disappointed with the result,” Armiento said, as they lost 2-0 to City back in Round 3.
“So I think going out and beating West Adelaide was a good confidence booster for the team.”
Para Hills are still searching for their first win of the campaign, having suffered two defeats and collected two draws.
The 19-year-old expected nothing less than a difficult encounter.
“I think Para Hills are always a team that’s always going to fight even if they’re losing,” he said.
“So it’s going to be a hard game especially away from home.”
Armiento was a revelation for the Youth Team during the 2018 iteration of the NPL and he continued his top-shelf performances into the Foxtel National Youth League over the summer.
His reward has also seen him earn minutes with the Hyundai A-League team this season, receiving his first-team debut against Melbourne Victory in December.
The prodigious talent has since gone on to make a further three cameo appearances for the Reds’ senior team this season, while being included in the matchday squad for the past six weeks.
While Armiento’s ultimate goal is to establish himself as a regular within the Hyundai A-League squad, he said the most important thing was to be playing consistent football.
“I think it’s important to be playing games at such a young age,” he continued.
“So going down to NPL is good I think just go out there and listen to Paul (Pezos), try to perform at my best level and whatever happens there will work itself out.”
Adelaide United Youth face Para Hills Knights in Round 5 of the National Premier League 2019 season on Saturday, 23 March at The Paddocks. Kick-off is at 3.00 PM. Reserves kick-off at 12.45pm.