Central Choke Mariners Tag unfair
In any other league in the world (except USA) the Central Coast players would be celebrating their league title as worthy winners of the 2011/12 Hyundai A-League. That is, if it wasn’t for Australia’s obsession from finals football.
Graham Arnold instead has been battered from pillar to post as he watched his team lose three straight games which resulted in a premature playoff exit. On the flip side Perth Glory have won their last three matches launching them into their first Grand Final appearance since their triumphant back to back titles in the NSL (2002-2004).
Arnold has performed wonderfully over the course of the 2011/12 season. Up against bigger clubs with more extensive budgets, preparing for an Asian Champions League (ACL) campaign and having to say goodbye to the key goal scorer Matt Simon midway through the season. Under these circumstances reaching the top 4 would have been a great effort, but finishing the season two points clear of the superior Brisbane Roar was simply outstanding.
Throughout the season Central Coast weren’t the best team during the season, but the most consistent. Capitalising on a bizarre five game winless stretch from Brisbane, the Mariners went top of the table, and never relinquished that spot.
Central Coast grinds out wins better than all other clubs in the league. NINE of their wins this season were by only one goal, compare that to Brisbane’s SIX. Graham Arnold’s men know how to win but do not have the ability to put teams away, like counterparts Brisbane. A driving force behind the Mariners becoming A-League Premiers was young keeper Matt Ryan. Ryan deservedly won the keeper of the year award, and has a bright future ahead of him. Central Coast only conceded 24 goals in 27 games throughout the season. Unfortunately for Central Coast and the A-League he will soon be lost to Europe on his footballing journey.
I think Saturday night also marked the end of the ‘Graham Arnold’ era. The vultures of SydneyFC are circling, and are better financed and resourced. I feel the timing is right for Arnold to make a coaching move.
Central Coast may not have been the best team of the 2011/12 season, but they finished top of the A-League table after the regular season. An ACL spot is just reward for their successful season, but won’t lessen the post season pain for fans.
To all of you who have thrown the chocker tag around, I think over achievers is a fairer comment.
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