Damien Da Silva has made a mark during his short time in Melbourne following his arrival in the January transfer window, and Saturday’s home debut win was the perfect introduction.
The experienced French central defender had a dream home debut, topped off with a goal in Victory’s 3-2 Derby win over the League leaders.
Speaking post match, Da Silva explained: “It’s a good beginning, I’m very happy, because the team needs to win. It was a special game, to win the Derby, it’s very important for the Club and for the team.”
Victory Head Coach Tony Popovic was full of praise for Da Silva post-match, who says his persistence to bring the Frenchman to the Club, although early, was evidently worth it.
“A top player, he really is a top player. Thankfully the the club really supported me on bringing that player in,” Popovic said in his post-match press conference.
“Outstanding player, professional, I thought he was outstanding against Newcastle (in the previous round). Here for five days and plays at three o’clock in the heat, thirty degrees when you’ve come from training for the last couple of months in zero degrees. It just shows you what a top player he is.”
Da Silva was an impressive standout, who ran out a second consecutive 90 minute performance following his arrival into the A-League.
With Sunday’s Pride Cup and Original Rivalry with Adelaide United now in full focus, Da Silva is looking for more of the same from his side.
“We want to do the same match, we need a victory, we are very motivated to win, we want to have a better ranking.”
Melbourne Victory’s A-League Men and Women host Adelaide United in the Pride Cup and Original Rivalry this coming Sunday at AAMI Park, with the action kicking off from 3:00pm.
