Petratos excels in Malaysia:
Professional footballer and Golden Goal advocate Dimitri Petratos has made a stellar start to the next chapter of his career, after signing with Malaysian giants Kelantan FA from Sydney FC towards the end of last year.
The livewire forward has scored six goals in six appearances for the Malaysian champions during pre-season matches and has been embraced by the local fans since his signing.
A product of the Sydney National Youth League, Petratos had an immediate impact for the Sky Blues when he made his A-League debut two seasons ago, scoring some exquisite goals.
However, after finding first-team opportunities difficult to come by this campaign, the 20-year-old decided to further his career abroad, after being courted by clubs throughout Asia.
Petratos’ frustration at a lack of game time has certainly been relieved since making the transition and on a recent visit back home he told SSC he was thoroughly enjoying the experience to date.
The former Sydney FC starlet said he was loving his time in Malaysia and spoke fondly of the fans. “They’ve supported me really well and every game I’ve played they’ve given me a warm welcome.”
The Malaysian Super League resumes this month and while his new club had filled their two-player foreign quota for the season, AFC Cup rules permit an additional overseas signing for the tournament.
In terms of their pedigree in Malaysia, Petratos could not have ended up at a better club, with Kelantan claiming a domestic treble last season by winning the Malaysian FA Cup, Super League and Cup titles.
Since his debut, his flashy football style and European charm have seen him idolised as the “Australian David Villa”. He was swamped at the airport on his arrival and his YouTube highlights package has received thousands of hits from locals.
On the home front, the Golden Goal facility at Strathfield Sports Club continues to be a resounding success. With many football clubs gradually beginning their pre-season, the fields have been supremely popular and are a great way to hone your skills and restore fitness levels.
With most fields across Sydney not yet dressed or equipped for the upcoming season, Golden Goal provides a great opportunity to get your team or a group of mates together for a social or intense kick around.
The fields are regularly booked out during peak times, so make sure you book in advance through Angelo Petratos, to avoid disappointment – M: 0433 222 096.
Of course the SSC clubhouse can provide you with all the refreshments you’ll need and we’ve always got a bag of ice and first aid kit on stand-by for any injuries you might pick up.
We look forward to monitoring the progress of Golden Goal’s young prodigy as he continues his football career in Asia and invite you to try out the facilities that helped nurture his development at Strathfield Sports Club.