Pinto enjoying new surroundings in West Sydney
Pinto joined the Berries from the Newcastle Jets National Youth League set up and was previously a part of Blacktown City FC.
But the youngster says the different environment at the Berries is bringing the best out of him.
“I think I?ve gone well here,?? he said.
“The club is a lot different but the boys really did welcome me into the club well.
“When I came I wasn?t seen as a stranger or anything like that and there was a real buzz about the team. I think that has shown on the pitch.
“When you get along with your team mates it is shown on the park so I am very happy at the Berries.
The diminutive midfielder has caught the eye of many observers in the NSW Premier League, and says his improved performances have come from his experience in the National Youth League.
“In Newcastle I was coached by a great coaching group in Gary Van Egmond, Mark Jones and later Branko Culina,?? Pinto said.
“I think my experience there has really helped me come back into the Premier League.
“Before I left I had a couple of games in first grade with Blacktown but after coming back I think it has really helped my first grade performances.
Pinto is now eyeing a return to the highest level of football in Australia.
“Every player wants to play to a level which is high,?? he said.
“Every footballer in the Premier league and even under the premier league aspires to get to top level of Australia.
“I would like to get there again whether it is in the near future or in the next season or two. So I would really love to get back up there.
The Berries drew with competitions heavyweights 1-1 last week, and Pinto says results are just around the corner.
“Kara came in and has really lifted up the boys,?? he said of new coach Steve Karavatakis.
“We came up short against Bonnyrigg who have a class side coached by a great coach but I am sure we will come the goods in the weeks to come.??
The West Sydney Berries face the Marconi Stallions at Sydney Olympic Athletic Park this Sunday at 3pm.
-By Christopher Georges
