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The Central Coast Mariners remain winless on the road in nine A-League matches despite a commendable performance against Melbourne City.
Two second half goals to Bruno Fornaroli sealed the win for City, as captain Patrick Kisnorbo opened the deadlock with a supurb header in the first half.
Following Kisnorbo’s header in the opening fifteen minutes, the Mariners drew level through Nick Fitzgerald. The young attacker made a nuisance of himself all game, and scored a fantastic goal from range to pull the Central Coast back 1-1 before the break.
It was a fast, free-flowing game of football, with plenty of chances at both ends. Mitch Austin and Fabio Ferreira were constantly getting around the defence, but the final ball was lacking for both sides.
In the second half John Vant Schip brought on David Williams and Corey Gameiro, and these attacking changes made all the difference. Williams provided Fornaroli with his first assist, whilst Gameiro and Mooy were involved in the second.
Final Score
Melbourne City 3
Central Coast Mariners 1
Melbourne City come up against the resilient Central Coast Mariners in a must win match for coach John Van’t Schip. Join the Roar Sunday from 5pm (AEDT) for live scores and coverage.
If Melbourne City are to have any chance of challenging for the title this year, winning at home against the lower teams is a must. Central Coast have proven that they’re no easy beats in the first two rounds, with a hard fought 3-2 loss to Perth Glory in Round 1 followed by last week’s narrow 2-1 loss to Brisbane Roar.
But despite the resistance from opposition, Van’t Schip knows that results need to start coming his way as Melbourne City have just one point from the opening two rounds.
To make matters worse, City were kicked out of the FFA Cup midweek in a 3-1 defeat to Perth Glory. Van’t Schipt has copped crticism for fielding an under-strength side, with starts to Tando Velaphi, debutant Matthew Millar and youngster Ben Garrucio.
Ultimately, this second defeat to Perth Glory in just three weeks shows the tactical vulnerability of City, who are otherwise a strong side with plenty of ex-EPL experience and international players. On paper, they’ve got the squad to challenge for the title.
Four players return to the fold for City after plaguing injury problems. Corey Gameiro, Jacob Melling, Ben Williams and Ben Garrucio are all available for selection, and all are capable of making an impact.
For Central Coast, a win today is just as important to get their season underway. The Mariners have had several young players come into the squad during the off-season, and the first two matches of the campaign have highlighted a vulnerability in defence.
However, this youth has also brought a raw attacking mentality into the squad – a much-needed change from last season’s disappointments. With Josh Rose slotting into the backline to add experience, the likes of Storm Roux, Mitch Austin, Anthony Caceres and Michael Neill now have license to roam forward.
However, with a few issues plaguing them off the field, they will need to be full focussed.
Melbourne City have bolstered their defence during the off-season, and it will be put to good use against an exciting Central Coast Mariners side. Punters might favour the Mariners in this one, who are at $4.35 for a win to City’s $1.75.
Prediction: Melbourne City with their first win of the season – 2-1.
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