The Central Coast Mariners men have had a busy and challenging week with two high-stakes matches, one at home in Gosford and the other on the road in China.
Both games demonstrated grit and some pleasing signs of growth under manager/coach Mark Jackson.
On Friday, October18, the Mariners played Melbourne Victory in a highly anticipated A-League Grand Final rematch to open the domestic season.
The two teams, locked in a fierce battle, ultimately settled for a 0-0 draw.
It was a hard-fought contest, with both sides creating opportunities but unable to break the deadlock.
The Mariners’ defence stood strong, with a solid performance from rookie goalkeeper Dylan Peraic-Cullen, who kept a clean sheet despite sustained pressure from the Victory attack.
While fans might have hoped for a goal, the draw offered a glimpse of the Mariners’ developing cohesion.
Just days later, on Tuesday night October 22, the Mariners were in China for a high-intensity clash against Chinese Super League giants Shanghai Port in the third leg of the AFC Champions Elite Cup.
Despite putting up a valiant effort, the Mariners fell 3-2, with Shanghai Port scoring two goals in the first half.
The Mariners’ first goal came from Mikael Doka 10 minutes into the second half, which helped keep the contest close, though a third goal to the hosts had the home fans smiling.
Just before the final moments of the game Nico Duarte scored a second goal for the Mariners in the 93rd minute.
While the result was not in the Mariners’ favour, Mark Jackson expressed cautious optimism, pleased with how his revamped squad is crystalising.
“The boys are progressing well, and this was a valuable learning experience for us,” Jackson said post-match.
The Mariners now face a whirlwind schedule, flying back to Australia before heading straight to South Australia for their A-League match against Adelaide United on Saturday night, October 26.
Fans can follow all the action live on CoastFM 96.3 from 4.30pm on Saturday.
With these back-to-back games and a team still finding its rhythm, this week has been a true test of endurance and development for the Central Coast Mariners.