Danzo continues to dazzle at Rockdale

Rockdale Illinden FC has had a stellar season thus far, sitting in third on the National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s table, within reach of the summit.

At the heart of their campaign, which sees them currently as the second-highest-scoring team on the ladder, has been former Levente academy player Isaac Danzo.

The midfielder has mixed his Spanish sense of technique and positional awareness with a more destructive, athletic game, and has emerged as one of the outstanding young talents in the competition.

Danzo has been a key player throughout Rockdale’s campaign, which had a fantastic start, with a stellar eight wins in their first ten games.

“We got off to quite a good start after 10 or so games,” said the midfielder.

“But then the squad had a couple of injuries and suspensions and we dropped off a bit, but we’ve started to find a rhythm again so hopefully from here on in we pick up three points.”

Danzo also spoke of his personal campaign and his move to Australia, remaining humble in the evaluation of his performances.

I’ve felt I’ve grown into it and to the team,” he said.

“The boys around me have helped as well – we’ve got a good group so I feel like I’ve found my feet.

“I’m just trying to help the team get the best results possible.”

His past, at both Alzira and Levante within Spain, has given Danzo crucial footballing and life experience, which has contributed to his fantastic form this campaign.

“It was good to experience something different to here,” judged Danzo.

“It’s a bit of a different style, so it helped me technically and with my tactical sense of the game.

“I feel like overall it was a good experience.”

However, the difference in playing style took a while for Danzo to get used to, with the more physical, transition game altering to the classic Spanish style.

“The system over there was quite tactical and technical (in Spain) compared to over here,” said Danzo on the differences between Spain and Australia.

“Australia in general is quite physical, so I had to work on different things.

“A lot of goals are on transition but it’s been good to infuse both things.

“I’d say it took me a good 3-6 months to get used to it, but I feel like I’ve grown into it and now I feel much more comfortable.”

Nevertheless, Danzo has adapted with class and composure, and at just 23, has a long way to go in his exciting, promising career.

Danzo has flagged both the A-League Men and Europe as possible future destinations, as he looks to build on his form at Rockdale for the remainder of the campaign.

“I’m happy I moved to Rockdale this year,” he said.

“My plans for the future are to go play at a higher level in the A-League or overseas as well, wherever the best opportunity arises.”