Costa’s family connection with APIA Leichhardt Tigers

Even though this is his first year with the Tigers, he wouldn?t have it any other way.
For Costa, APIA has a family connection and therefore he has an amazing sense of pride in the pulling on the famous jersey.
?It was always an interest of mine to come here because my grandfather, Mario Costa, played in the first team at APIA,? he said. ?When I came here there was a bit of pride and family history involved.
?Also, the Manly United game on Sunday will be a big game for me because I am up against my cousin, Adam Foti, who is the striker for Manly United.?
Anthony Costa has been somewhat of a journeyman in his career so far. He reluctantly trialled and made it as a St George junior before moving to other clubs and overseas.
?I was never going to go down to the trials but Paul Scott, my first coach, said just to go down to the trials and I started my career there,? he said.
Costa?s junior career spanned from St George, to Eastern Suburbs, to Sutherland Sharks, and then Sydney University. His first stint overseas was in Cyprus.
?I went to Cyprus to trial and did quite well but came back because I was knocked down with glandular fever, so I was a bit unlucky,? he said.
?I came back for one more season at Sydney University, then I moved Parramatta FC Eagles for two more seasons in the Super League ? we went well and got the minor premiership. Then I went overseas again: firstly to Wales and then to Spain.
?When I finally came back to Australia I re-joined Parramatta FC and then moved to APIA this year because they gave me an offer I couldn?t refuse.?
APIA Leichhardt Tigers in the NSW Premier League is a natural home for Costa at the moment who is very much enjoying his time at the historically famous football club.
?There?s a really good dressing room of boys,? he said. ?On our day we know that we are one of the best teams in the competition but we have been unlucky lately. We are looking at fighting for a finals spot in a very tight competition at the moment where every game counts.?
Costa is also ambitious like many other players in the NSW Premier League.
?I have been chasing my personal ambition for the last six years,? he stated. ?Perhaps a contract in the A-League and my dream has always been to go to Italy. I know that I am getting older but not for a goalkeeper. However, to crack it over there I would have to get my foot in the door very soon.
?I love playing in the NSW Premier League but I do have bigger ambitions just like any other goalkeeper in this competition.
?There are opportunities there; Vedran [Janjetovic of Sydney United 58 FC] got an opportunity this year and congratulations to him because he has been working very hard for that opportunity.?
-By Joe Russo