The Roar's A-League Men tips and predictions: Round 26 - the jostle for finals positions is on in earnest
Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
The world watched on as the world’s fastest man made his professional football debut for the Central Coast Mariners against a local Central Coast Select team.
Usain Bolt played around 20 minutes off the bench on the left-wing. The yellow and navy won 6-1 thanks to a double from new recruit Jack Clisby and goals from Michael McGlinchey, Peter Kekeris, Mario Shabow and Josh Macdonald.
Today, I take a look at what Bolt did well and what he needs to improve.
Bolt seemed to laugh at many times during the match as most of the eyes were on him. His first touch resulted in an accidental scorpion kick which ended up finding a teammate, leading to a laugh from Usain. He was laughing at most times during the game.
This may raise the question as to whether Bolt is willing to take this trial seriously and that he won’t be a waist of the exorbitant salary he reportedly wants.
On the skill side of things Bolt definitely lags behind, as shown with his first touch. He provides rhe pace what Mike Mulvey wants to establish after signing pacey players in Mario Shabow and Jordan Murray – although Bolt has probably chosen the worst possible A-League club to play for.
It is tough to judge after one match but I think Bolt will need a full 12 months before we know if he can cut it.
Bolt’s fitness is going to be the decider. If that improves he could definitely be handy for both attendances and success.
Verdict so far: Judging by the 10,000 people that turned up, I think it would be too much to give.
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Here is the way the Roar expert panel sees all the action unfolding across the final weekend of play prior to the semi-finals.
Central Coast Mariners' star striker Angel Torres has been stood down from playing in the A-League Men after he was charged with sexual assault. …
Mathew Leckie played a pivotal part in Melbourne City claiming an 8-nil win; playing a role in several of his team's goals.
The Mariners must deal with possibly their toughest challenge yet - Kyrgyzstan’s FK Abdysh-Ata Kant in the first leg of the semifinal.
The loser of the Sydney Derby will be under immense pressure entering the final three matches of the season.
A good performance from Michael Ruhs, scoring twice to beat Macarthur and doubling his season goal tally in the process.