Arthur Diles insists Melbourne Victory cannot get caught up in matters out of their control as they prepare for Round 3 of the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s.
His side make the trip to Western Australia to face Perth Glory, who relieved David Zdrilic of his head coach duties with immediate effect on Tuesday night.
But the focus for Victory remains firmly on claiming a first three points of the 2025/26 season after the opening weekend draw with reigning Premiers, Auckland FC, was followed up by defeat at Newcastle Jets last time out.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Diles discussed what is required from his team to get a positive result at HBF Park on Friday, October 31, kick-off 9.45pm AEDT.
“Irrespective of what’s happened over there, it’s going to be a very tough game, and one we’ve got to be up for, and we’ve got to make sure we do everything right in our own process and our own performance, and worry about ourselves first and if we do that, then everything else will take care of itself.
“We all know that last week, although we weren’t at our best, and maybe the scoreline didn’t reflect the performance, it wasn’t our standards. So, it’s a good opportunity to put that to bed and move forward, and come out with a big response.”
Diles also provided a positive report on the fitness of those who made the trip to Newcastle, and had welcome news on the potential availability of Men’s Captain, Roderick Miranda.
“Everyone’s pulled up well, which is great. We’re ready physically for the trip to Perth. It’s always a tough one going there, but we’re ready for that. We know it’s going to be tough, but we’re looking forward to bouncing back.
“Yeah, Louis (D’Arrigo) hasn’t got up for it, but he should be right now for the derby, and things are looking positive with Roddy, so we’ll make that call tomorrow and, hopefully, he travels with the team.”
Watch Diles’ full press conference below.
