Mariners women through to semi-finals after thrilling win in Gosford

The Central Coast Mariners women’s team has secured a place in the Ninja A-League Women’s semi-finals after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Canberra United at Industree Group Stadium in Gosford on Monday evening, April 28.

The match was originally set for Sunday afternoon but was pushed back to Monday evening and played in wet conditions following heavy rain.

Despite the disruption, the Mariners showed trademark determination to come from behind and win in front of a vocal home crowd.

Canberra struck first just before half-time, with veteran striker Michelle Heyman finding the net in the 43rd minute, assisted by Sofia Christopherson.

But the Mariners responded almost immediately after the half-time break.

A dangerous cross from Tiana Fuller caused chaos in the Canberra defence, and English import Jade Pennock was on hand to level the scores, slotting home a goal after a deflection.

With momentum building, the Mariners pressed for the lead.

The breakthrough came in the 74th minute when Pennock unleashed a brilliant long-range strike, curling the ball past Canberra goalkeeper Sally James to spark celebrations around the stadium.

Canberra fought hard in the dying minutes, but the Mariners’ defence held strong through seven minutes of added time to seal the win.

Jade Pennock, who scored both goals, praised the team’s character after the match.

“It was a tough game, Canberra is a quality side, but we showed real spirit to come back and get the win in front of our home fans,” she said.

“That second goal was pretty special.”

The Mariners women will now face Melbourne City in a two-legged semi-final, with the first match to be played at home at Industree Group Stadium next Saturday, May 3.

Meanwhile, the Mariners men play the last game of their season against Brisbane Roar on Friday evening May 2, at home in Gosford.

The premiership-winning men’s team languish in 10th spot on the A-League ladder, well outside finals contention.