Through all that has happened in Season 2019/20, youngster Harry Van der Saag says he wouldn’t trade his first season as a professional for anything else.
Overcoming bushfire smoke, extreme heat and a three month lockdown following a global pandemic, Van der Saag said it wasn’t a season he could have imagined, however he’s thrilled with how his time in Sky Blue so far has played out.
“I have really been through everything [in this first season as a pro],” Van der Saag said.
“It’s been a bit up and down but I’m very happy with how it’s turned out. I couldn’t have asked for a better first season as a professional, the boys have really looked out for me and helped me through games, especially Ryan McGowan and Rhyan Grant, I’ve really enjoyed it.
“This is definitely not the first season I was dreaming of, I was just hoping to make my debut this season, I’m pretty stoked to get a goal and get all the games that I have.
“It’s unfortunate things have happened but that’s just how it is. There’re worse things going on in the world but I wouldn’t trade this season for anything.
“It was unfortunate [the postponement],” he continued.
“We were going on a bit of a run and coming to the end of the season looking to wrap up the Premiers Plate.
“It’s just a little hiccup in our way, we just need to regroup and come back stronger like we are and we’ll be fine.”
Ahead of the Sky Blues first match back against the Wellington Phoenix on July 17, Van der Saag sounded a warning to the club’s rivals, saying the Sky Blues are back stronger than they were in March at the time of postponement.
“We’re looking sharper than anything if ever,” he said.
“I can’t wait for the game against Wellington, it should be a great game, they’ve been doing well this season so it’ll be a good first hit out for both teams.
“I knew everyone would be coming back injury free so I worked even harder in lockdown to come back stronger myself.
“I’ve set the same goals as the start as the season,” he continued.
“Play as many games, get as many minutes and help the boys get that Premiers Plate.”
Sydney FC return to Hyundai A-League action on Friday 17 July against the Wellington Phoenix.
