Adelaide United secured a thrilling 4-3 victory against Western Sydney Wanderers on Saturday night, with new boy Dylan Pierias stealing the spotlight against his former club. The 24-year-old wing-back delivered a standout performance, scoring twice and helping the Reds to a crucial first win on the road.
Reflecting on the match, head coach Carl Veart emphasised the significance of the victory for a team still integrating new players.
“I think it’s going to be a good lift for the boys. We’ve got some new players in the team and some younger players as well,” Veart said. “It’s always good to get a win away from home, especially in a difficult place like here. The boys will take a lot of belief in all the work we’ve done in pre-season.”
One of the biggest talking points from the match was Pierias’ outstanding display, scoring twice against his former club in what was a high-energy performance. Veart was full of praise for the new recruit, who has settled into life in Adelaide seamlessly.
“Dylan has been tremendous since he came to the club. We’ve brought him in to play more as an attacking player, but with circumstances, he’s had to play back at right-back, where he played a lot of his junior football. And again, tonight, he was excellent.”
Pierias’ return to the backline was necessitated by an injury to right-back Panashe Madanha, but his attacking instincts have flourished in his new role. “We play with that right-back very high, and they cause a lot of threat because they have that explosive speed,” Veart explained. “It suits Dylan playing that way, and he’s shown tonight that maybe this is the best role for him.”
Pierias himself reflected on the special significance of scoring against his old team, telling Seven News Adelaide, “It’s always a good storyline scoring against your old club. I’ve got a few mates there, and it’s nice to give them a bit of stick.” He also described his first goal for Adelaide as “probably the best goal I have scored in my career.”
The new Dad has quickly become a key figure for the Reds, with Veart attributing his sharp performances in part to the stability in his personal life. “He’s a new father, so that’s maybe settled him a little bit more and focused him as well. I’m glad for him. He’s done a lot of work and got some good reward tonight,” Veart added.
The Reds attacking style has remained a hallmark under Veart, but the coach acknowledged the need to find a better balance after conceding three goals. “We’ve always been a very attacking side. It’d be good if we didn’t concede so many goals, but we want to be on the front foot and play attacking football. The boys tonight were excellent, especially in that first half.”
At just 24, Pierias is showing signs of fulfilling his potential, and Veart, who has known him since his time with the Young Socceroos, believes the best is yet to come.
“Dylan is still a young player. He’s had some good experiences, and sometimes it just takes a little bit more time. But I think tonight he showed what he’s capable of.”
Next up for the Reds is Western United under the Saturday night lights at Coopers Stadium. You can buy tickets here.
