Mariners bow out of AFC Elite after tough loss in Japan

FOOTBALL

The Central Coast Mariners’ AFC Elite campaign came to a close on Tuesday evening, February 18, with a 2-0 defeat to J-League super club Kawasaki Frontal in Tokyo, Japan.

For those who tuned in via CoastFM, the result was not unexpected given the Mariners’ depleted squad and Kawasaki’s formidable experience at this level.

Despite the loss, the performance was a respectable one, considering the Mariners’ long list of injuries to key players.

Coach Mark Jackson, while surely disappointed with the winless campaign, will take heart in the valuable experience gained by his squad.

The tournament provided young players with crucial exposure to international football, an opportunity that will serve them well in their future careers.

With the AFC Elite journey now behind them, the Mariners must quickly refocus on domestic duties. A rapid turnaround awaits as they prepare for their clash against Western Sydney Wanderers this Saturday, February 22, at home in Gosford.

After a gruelling run of fixtures, a return to Industree Group Stadium will offer a chance for redemption and a much-needed reset for the squad.

While this season’s Asian campaign did not yield the results they hoped for, the team and club can take great heart in having played at such a lofty level of football, something that the young players will surely grow into.