Dylan Pierias has been a revelation for Adelaide United this season. The 24-year-old wing-back has played every minute of every Isuzu UTE A-League match, delivering the best form of his career. With three goals and three assists in 14 starts, he has become a key player for the Reds, and now, he is eyeing the next step: a call-up to the Socceroos.
Speaking to the media after the Reds first away loss of the season in Sydney on the weekend, Pierias remains focused despite a recent setback, acknowledging that consistency is crucial for a championship-winning side. “We’ve been great all season, but sometimes these games happen. We’ve looked at the mistakes we made, and we’re looking to fire back this weekend,” he said after the team’s recent match.
“It’s easy to feel sorry for yourself and hang your head, but I don’t think the group is like that. So this week, I think we’re going to come out firing and maybe have that extra step this week that we didn’t have last week,” Pierias assured. He also welcomed the return of key players Ryan Kitto and Ben Folami, whose leadership and experience will be vital moving forward.

“Kitto is our captain, and he’s a great leader. So not only did we miss his football ability, we missed his leadership on the field. And with Kitto there, we all feel a little bit safer. And you know, he demands a lot from the boys, which is what you need out of a leader. So he was missed.”
The young talent at Adelaide United has also been turning heads, with several players earning national team call-ups. While Pana, Yull, Talladira and Jovanović absences which will be felt, Pierias sees it as an opportunity for others to step up. “Obviously, four important young boys for us. You know, it just brings more opportunity for other boys to step up. But, you know, to these things, you don’t want these players to go, but, you know, it’s good that they’re representing our country and they’ll be missed, but I’m sure the boys that are stepping up will do the job.”
Pierias himself is making a strong case for Socceroos selection, thriving in his wing-back role. “It’s every A-League Australian player’s dream. It’s a dream of mine to play for the Socceroos. Whether that happens, I’m not sure. I’m just trying to put my best foot forward and perform every week for the club. And, you know, if Popovic thinks I’ve done well enough, that would be good. But at the end of the day, I focus on Adelaide United. And, you know, I’ll just take it game by game and see what happens in the future.”
Looking ahead to Friday night, Pierias expects a tough battle against Melbourne City. “Playing Melbourne City, it’s always going to be a good game. And credit to them, they’ve had a lot of injuries, and it goes to show with their young boys, you know, they’ve put trust in them, and they’ve done very, very well. So, you know, regardless of who plays for them this week, we know it’s going to be a tough game.”
Beyond the pitch, Pierias enjoys the camaraderie with his teammates, even indulging in a bit of fishing on the side. “Archie actually did, but he likes to claim that it was his. But I think I did all the work.”
With Adelaide United’s strong home support, Pierias is eager to continue their momentum in front of packed crowds. “The fans push us right to the final whistle. Hopefully, they turn up in big numbers again this weekend.”
As the Reds gear up for a crucial doubleheader, Pierias recognises the importance of showcasing both the men’s and women’s teams. “Of course, it’s important to have double headers. I think it just brings more hype. And you know, also the women’s team are doing so well as well. So I’m sure a lot of the fans will come down and watch them as well. And then, yeah, it just brings more excitement, more value for the fans.”
With every minute played, every challenge met, and every performance improving, Dylan Pierias is proving he is more than ready for the next level. Now, it’s just a matter of time before the Socceroos come calling.