The Bulls’ road trip around New South Wales reaches its final stop with one of the biggest away fixtures of the season, the New Year’s Day Derby against the Western Sydney Wanderers.
Ahead of the clash, Damien Da Silva spoke to the media about the team’s preparation for the pivotal encounter.
While Da Silva acknowledges the significance of the derby, he insists the mindset remains the same, with three points the priority.
“We work a lot for this game, of course. We work for every game because every game is important. This one is special and we know that, so we’re excited to play.”
The French defender is no stranger to derby football, having previously featured in matches of similar intensity during his time at Melbourne Victory. For Da Silva, winning these fixtures means just as much for the fans as it does for the players.
“You can feel that it’s special, with the club and with the fans. We want to win for them too, it’s important.”
“Every game is important because every game gives you the chance to win three points. But this one is special, and we love that as players.”
“We love to win these kinds of games and to play away in these stadiums. It’s very exciting.”
Da Silva recently returned to the pitch following a short injury lay-off and says he’s feeling confident heading into the clash with the Wanderers, crediting the club’s medical staff for his recovery.
“I’m feeling better, I’m feeling good. I’m very happy to be back with the team. I’ve worked hard over the last few weeks with the physios and the staff.”
“They did a great job and thanks to them I’m feeling very good and happy to play again.”
Now in his second stint in the A-Leagues, Da Silva says he’s enjoying being back in the competition and embracing a new chapter with the Bulls.
“I’m very happy to be back. I really enjoyed my first experience with Melbourne Victory, it was great to discover the country and the competition.”
“I wanted to come back, and now I’m at Macarthur. It’s a new experience, I love this club, and I’m very happy to be playing here.”
