The Mariners end Sydney FC’s winning streak with a gallant 1-0 victory at Bluetongue.
The Central Coast Mariners returned to winning ways at the expense of Sydney FC as a clever back heel from the returning Daniel McBreen in the 26th minute was all that separated the sides is an interesting encounter at Bluetongue Stadium.
The Mariners were solid defensively, and Sydney struggled to find a breakthrough with marquee man Alessandro Del Piero plus inspirational leader Brett Emerton missing due to injury. With their absence, the Mariners were allowed to dominate in midfield, especially in the 1st half, as Kiwi international Michael McGlinchey and the Mariners new favourite son Marcos Flores combining well in the centre of midfield to create chances for their team.
The deadlock was broken in the middle of the 1st half with a move that started with right back Storm Roux combining well with Mitchell Duke as Roux’s cross was unable to be cleared by Sydney as it fell to McGlinchey who slipped it through to Josh Rose who squared it brilliantly for McBreen to finish cheekily with a back heel. It could’ve been more, as a delicious cross from Josh Rose fell perfectly onto McBreen who missed a free header from all of 2 yards out.
Sydney got on top in the 2nd half, as the Mariners sat back and allowed Sydney a healthy share of possession, but they were unable to create many meaningful opportunities. Liam Reddy’s goal was never truly threatened as Sydney’s 4 game winning streak came to a grounding halt. Their lack of penetration through the disciplined Mariners defence, ultimately led to their loss. Former Mariner Pedj Bojic was lively down the right flank combining well with Joel Chianese and Ranko Despotovic, but they were unable to create an opportunity to bulge the Mariners net.
The Mariners were full value for their win, and move up to 5th on the ladder, and face a trip to Adelaide next week. Sydney stays in 4th place as they return home to face the Heart who had a moral boosting draw against the Wanderers.
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