"I played on the right today but I think I'm quite comfortable in numerous positions all over the park so I'm sure as the season progresses you'll probably see me play in different roles."
Making his Sydney debut a day after fellow Socceroo Harry Kewell's first game for Melbourne Victory in Adelaide, Emerton got through some good work before being substituted in the 54th minute.
"The reception I got was fantastic so it's great to be back in Sydney and playing in front of the crowd and hopefully that'll continue," Emerton said.
Emerton should have scored Sydney's opening goal, but hit the post from just a few metres out after Perth goalkeeper Danny Vukovic pushed a Nick Carle shot in his direction in the 19th minute.
However, Carle pounced on the rebound to score.
Perth recruit and former Republic of Ireland under-21 international striker Billy Mehmet rounded off good leadup work to equalise in the 35th minute.
Emerton put Sydney ahead again from the spot after Mark Bridge was fouled.
"I heard Nicky (Carle) missed one last week so I thought I'd step up," Emerton joked.
"But it's good to get on the score sheet in the first game and hopefully many more to come."
The lead lasted just two minutes, as Todd Howarth fired home from close range after Sydney's defender and halftime substitute Sebastian Ryall fluffed an attempted clearance.
Sydney looked more dangerous early with Carle looking lively, but Perth played with more authority as the game progressed and both teams had chances to win.
Perth coach Ian Ferguson felt his team improved after letting themselves down early and wasn't happy with the penalty awarded against his team.
"We were good value for the last 60 to 70 minutes," Ferguson said.
Glory midfielder Liam Miller was stretchered off late in the game due to a severe case of cramping.
- AAP
