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.
Central Coast coach Mike Mulvey insists his focus isn’t clouded by the mystery surrounding Usain Bolt’s future at the club despite fresh reports a deal is on the table.
The eight-time Olympic sprint champion-turned A-League hopeful didn’t travel with the Mariners for their season opener in Brisbane on Sunday, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Reports surfaced mid-contest he was instead in Melbourne pondering a deal tabled over the weekend by club boss Shaun Mielekamp.
Bolt’s long-time agent Ricky Simms later confirmed the offer had been tabled, which was apparently news to the man he would be coached by.
“I don’t know anything about what you’re talking about and that’s god’s honest truth,” he said.
The 32-year-old scored twice against non-A-League opponents in a trial game last weekend but has received mixed reviews since joining the Gosford-based club in a deal that has captured the attention of the sporting world.
Mulvey insists he isn’t getting caught up in the hype now the season is upon him.
“I have a real good plan,” he said.
“That is, we’re going to go back, have some dinner, have a little look at the game that’s on … then get on a plane tomorrow, go home and start preparing for Melbourne City next week.
“That’s the plan.”
The coach said he had no update to give when pressed post-match but couldn’t resist a critique of the Jamaican hopeful.
“I do appreciate how important this story is for the rest of the world,” he said.
“But you have a look at our frontline today and you wonder if he could get into any of those positions, wouldn’t you?”
Are you the ultimate team manager? Pick your own superstar team and go head to head with other football fans for glory and cash prizes on Draftstars. Imagine what you could be buying instead. Set a deposit limit.
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.