Central Coast Mariners clinch A-League Premiership with win over Adelaide
Central Coast Mariners are premiers of A-League Men for the first time in 12 years after defeating Adelaide in the season finale.
Adelaide United defender Antony Golec has avoided sanction after admitting posting a “foolish” homophobic slur against a referee on a social network website.
Golec was told by Adelaide United on Monday his contract would be terminated if he transgressed again.
The 21-year-old used social networking website Twitter to attack A-League referee Ben Williams while he was controlling Melbourne Victory’s home match against Brisbane Roar on Saturday night.
Williams made several controversial calls in the 2-2 draw, including sending off two Victory players.
Golec initially tweeted “Ben Williams worst referee ever” before a subsequent homophobic message attacked Williams.
Golec said the final comment was meant as a private message to his brother but was mistakenly placed on his general page.
“As a consequence, the twitter was read by people to whom I never intended to publish what was a private exchange in which I attempted to be humorous,” Golec read from a prepared statement on Monday.
“I accept without reservation what I did was foolish and that as a consequence Ben Williams has every right to feel insulted and aggrieved.
“I unreservedly apologise to Ben.
“What I thought were private comments were sent in a moment of excitement, without proper thought being given to them.”
The former Sydney FC defender said he had been told “in no uncertain terms” by Adelaide United officials that a further similar transgression would result in his contract being torn up.
“I will ensure that I repay the loyalty and faith they have shown in me,” he said.
“I have also been counselled as to how the misuse of social media can lead to the issues for the club and me personally.
“The club has told me that it’s up to me to regain the trust and confidence of the squad, I will do that.”
Golec, who did not take questions from the media, also said he had written to Williams and hoped the referee would accept his apology.
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Central Coast Mariners are premiers of A-League Men for the first time in 12 years after defeating Adelaide in the season finale.
Central Coast sit second behind Wellington, and a victory over Adelaide will see them finish the regular season on top of the ladder.
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