In a thrilling turn of events, the Central Coast Mariners clinched the A-League Men premiership after 12 long years, securing a 2-0 victory over Adelaide United on Wednesday night, May 1, in the lead up to the finals season.
With just a draw needed to secure the top spot and deny Wellington Phoenix their first premiership, the Mariners delivered on the promise at a rain-drenched Industree Group Stadium.
Adelaide initially displayed more intensity, with Hiroshi Ibusuki and Stefan Mauk testing Mariners goalkeeper Danny Vukovic.
Young sensation Nestory Irankunda, playing his final game before joining Bayern Munich, had a fierce strike blocked by Brian Kaltak.
Despite Adelaide’s early pressure, it was the Mariners who took control, with Christian Theoharous making waves on the attack.
A well-placed free-kick from Mikael Doka found Jacob Farrell at the back post, who headed in the opener in the 36th minute.
The Mariners maintained their momentum into the second half, with Brad Tapp and Doka causing further troubles for Adelaide goalkeeper Ethan Cox.
Irankunda came close to scoring for Adelaide but found his efforts thwarted by a sharp Vukovic save.
As frustrations grew for the Reds, the Mariners stayed composed.
They capitalized on a break, with Max Balard finishing coolly past Cox in the 76th minute to secure the Mariners’ first premiership since the 2011-12 season, under Graham Arnold’s leadership.
Mark Jackson’s side wrapped up a remarkable season, holding off Wellington all year and securing their place in the AFC Cup final on Sunday.