With the back end of the season approaching and the margins tightening by the week, Sotiri Phillis has delivered a clear message: every point counts from here.
The young defender believes Adelaide United’s gritty win over Sydney FC could be the spark that drives the Reds through the final stretch of the season – but says the squad will need the full force of the Red Army behind them to turn belief into results.
“It was one of the wins of the season,” Phillis said.
“To go away from home against a top team like Sydney, defend the way we did and then take our chances when they came – that gives us a lot of confidence.
“On the day, I think we were the better team, and that belief carries into the next games.”
The 19-year-old has now featured in five consecutive Isuzu UTE A-League matches, stepping into the starting side during a crucial period of the campaign. His composure and presence at the back have grown with each performance, and he says he’s relishing the opportunity.
“Life right now is really good. I can’t complain,” he said.
“I was happy just playing one game this year, so to be five games in a row now, I’m over the moon.
“As a centre-back, I want to be comfortable on the ball and be a leader on the pitch. However I can help the team, that’s what matters.”
Phillis credits the experience around him for accelerating his development, learning alongside senior defenders while embracing different partnerships at the back.
“Every person has different qualities,” he said.
“If I can take one percent from each of them, it helps me grow. It’s been a great learning curve, and I just want to keep improving game by game.”
The win over Sydney has lifted Adelaide United back into the thick of the finals race, and Phillis says the group is focused on turning strong performances into consistency across the final weeks.
“It gives us a massive boost,” he said.
“We know what’s ahead of us. Every point matters now, and we’re focused on climbing that ladder.
“We’re building something. The confidence is there – we just have to keep pushing.”
Now attention turns back to Coopers Stadium, and Phillis believes the home support could make the difference as the Reds chase a strong finish.
“It’s the best stadium in the league,” he said.
“To play in front of our home fans, friends and family – that’s what you dream about.
“We need everyone there. The fans make a difference. They give us that extra push.”
With belief building and momentum growing at the right time of the year, Adelaide United know what’s required. The message is simple: stick together, fight for every point — and let the Red Army drive the run home.
