The Central Coast Mariners continued their quest for a grand final berth by defeating rivals Adelaide United 2-1 at Coopers Stadium in Adelaide on Saturday, May 13.
The win puts the Mariners in a leading solid position coming into the return leg of the two-match semi-final to be played at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium this Saturday night, May 20.
In last Saturday’s game, an early penalty to Adelaide in the third minute was something the home side thought would stamp the match in its favour, but it was not to be.
Goals to Mariners James McGarry in the 15th minute and Jason Cummings in the 37th minute sealed the deal in the first half, in a game of attacking football that showed the Mariners’ depth of talent.
A strong second half saw the scores unchanged until the final whistle, with the team now buoyant and ready for its return home to Gosford for the game that will decide who advances to the grand final.
Strong shots on goal from Silvera, Kaltak, N’kololo Balard and Tulio in addition to Cummings and McGarry demonstrated the diversity of play up front, from a squad that has peaked at exactly the right time.
It was in defence that the Mariners team really excelled with keeper Vukovic and key defender Kaltak showing off their incredible talents in thwarting their opposition.
Kaltak’s indomitable attitude has put him in the running for the best defender in the league by recording 13 clearances on the night when no one else managed more than four.
Captain/keeper Danny Vukovic must surely be the greatest keeper in the A-league competition, by consistently inspiring his team to do better and constantly demonstrating his own commitment with his heroic saves.
While it was a strong result against the Adelaide team, which was deemed favourite on the night by most pundits, even more remarkable was the young Central Coast team seemed to grow under the pressure of finals football.
The club is now urging all supporters and their families to attend Saturday’s re-match at Gosford’s Industree Group Stadium on May 20 at 7:45pm, something that will help get the side into the grand final.
Tickets are available via the Mariners’ website.
David Abrahams