Adelaide United full-back Dylan Pierias says confidence is flowing through the squad after last Friday’s 2-1 opening round win over Sydney FC, as the Reds prepare for back-to-back away fixtures against Macarthur FC and Auckland FC.
The 25-year-old was one of several standouts in the opening victory and spoke to media this week about the team’s belief, his own development, and the hunger to build on a positive start under Head Coach Airton Andrioli.
Pierias on the start to the season:
“Coming into Round One, you always want to start well. To get that first win, especially against a strong side like Sydney FC, was great. The mood around the group this week has been super positive, and everyone’s just really looking forward to the next two games.”
On the long gap before Monday’s match against Macarthur:
“No, I don’t think it hurts momentum – it just depends on our mentality. The boys are focused, we’ve recovered well, and we’re ready to go again. Monday night’s not the best time to play, but it is what it is. We can’t change that, and it won’t bother us.”
On his performance and role this season:
“It’s a pretty similar role to what I played last year – full-back but very attacking when we have the ball. I thought it was a good hit-out for me. I’ve been working a lot on my defending and felt strong on Friday night, so hopefully I can just keep improving.”
On linking up with Craig Goodwin in attack:
“After the game, he did apologise to me in a funny way for taking my assist away [missing the chance]! But the most important thing is that we’re both getting into those positions. That combination will keep improving – and I’m sure next time it’ll come off.”
On potential Socceroos ambitions:
“There’s been a little bit of interest but no direct contact yet. Obviously, it’d be a dream to go to a World Cup. Is it hard? Yeah. Is it impossible? No. Popa’s shown he’s willing to give A-League players opportunities, so I just have to perform every week and see where that takes me.”
On adapting under Airton Andrioli:
“We’ve had three months to prepare, and Airton’s a really good coach tactically. I think the first-round performance just reinforced our confidence that what we’re doing works. It wasn’t a surprise – it was more a boost to see it all come together so well.”
