Peter Triantis has matured brilliantly in his first A-league season and has become a quiet star, but admits his success is the result of Frank Farina’s direction.
“I have been asked to play tight. In that central role you can’t really give them space and you have to close them down, I’m just doing what the coach tells me to do and that is my role,” Triantis said.
“Coming from the state league I’m OK with the physicality, but the technical skills are a lot higher, players are a lot better with the ball and without the ball, just all round it’s the entire game is a lot better.”
The 20 year old, still holds Sydney Olympic close to his heart for many reasons. His Youth League prowess is what got him into the A-league, but it’s his family’s involvement that really hits home.
He’s one of 10 children, five of whom were at Sydney Olympic last season. Triantis likes to set an example for them and admits he’s always aware of their presence at the ground in support of him.
“I always look up and find them in the crowd, they’re always there,” he said.
“I’m one of the older ones. There are five of us who were at Olympic last year, so they all look up to me and they all come to every game; I’m so happy just to make them proud and give them a pathway to see it’s possible for them as well.”
The midfielder has had a tough two years, having to deal with serious injury and personal tragedy, but you wouldn’t know it, as he takes everything in his stride.
Triantis’ defensive skills have been the highlight of his game, and has taken on big roles going toe-to-toe with the likes of Tom Rogic and Dario Vidosic.
But, if the player is to really shine, the Sky Blues must win the next two matches. It’s been a season of bad luck for Sydney FC, languishing in last place on the ladder.
“Frank has drummed it home to us that playing at home we must win, especially this weekend. Getting off the bottom of the table is a priority and we are playing teams around us over the next two weeks, so they are six pointers, as they say.”
Source: FFA news: Paul Johnson
