Mallia hungry for success

Former Sydney FC striker Mitchell Mallia is hoping a stint with IGA National Premier League NSW men’s 1 side Blacktown City will catapult him back into the A-League.

Mallia, 22, spent three years with Sydney FC scoring one goal in the club’s 2-1 win over Adelaide United at Hindmarsh Stadium in 2012.

Several state league club’s contacted Mallia for his signature after his contract with Sydney FC ended at the completion of the 2013/14 season.

But he said Blacktown stood out for him for many reasons.

“I have come to a great club with great players and it gives me another chance to work on things that I’m lacking and hopefully eventually get back into the A-League,” Mallia said.

“I had a few clubs contact me but I had to make the best decision for myself and what I thought was the best chance for me to work with quality coaches, players. I believe I made the right choice.”

The pacey forward has already reminded football fans of his ability with two assists in his first three games for Blacktown City.

Mallia is open about what he needs to improve in his game to get back to the top level in Australia.

He believes having worked closely with former Italian international Alessandro Del Piero at Sydney FC has him in good stead.

“I am pretty sure I annoyed him a bit because every day after every session I just went up to him and asked him to teach me something,” he said.

“To be honest I walked away a much better player because of him.

“If I can add a bit more finesse to my game, that’s what Del Piero was trying to drum into me.

“He would tell me I was quick but I had to work on all aspects of the game – control under slower situations so that is what I am trying to work on.

“I know I can always knock it behind a defender but when it comes to turning out and something different I have to work it on.”

Now his focus has shifted to working on his game with Blacktown and winning the IGA National Premier League NSW competition.

He believes the Blacktown squad has what it takes to become champions.

“Blacktown has always been a very strong club,” he said.

“We have a very young squad but there is quality all over the park.

“That was a big factor in why I chose to come here because I knew I would be working with quality players.

“We want to win the title, that is why we play and I believe we have got a good chance.”

-By Chris Georges