A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm)

[Beejayville]

Central Coast Mariners v Wellington Phoenix Friday 31 August 2007 Kick-Off 8:00pm AEST (10:00pm NZST, 7:30pm ACST, 6:00pm AWST) Bluetongue Stadium, Gosford Radio: Coast FM 96.3FM (Central Coast) - www.coastfm.org.au Central Coast Mariners Squad: 1.Matthew TROTT (gk) 2.Matt SIMON 5.Bradley PORTER 6.Andre GUMPRECHT 7.John HUTCHINSON 8.Dean HEFFERNAN 9.Nik MRDJA 10.Tom PONDELJAK 11.Damien BROWN 12.Greg OWENS 13.Tony VIDMAR 15.Andrew CLARK 16.Nigel BOOGAARD 17.Matthew OSMAN 19.Adam KWASNIK 20.Danny VUKOVIC (gk) 22.Sasho PETROVSKI 23.Mile JEDINAK * three to be omitted In: Tony Vidmar (promoted), Andrew Clark (promoted), Bradley Porter (promoted), Damien Brown (promoted) Out: Alex Wilkinson (Knee – indefinite) Others Unavailable: None Wellington Phoenix squad: 20.Glen MOSS (gk) 2.Jeremy CHRISTIE 3.Tony LOCHHEAD 4.CLEBERSON 5.Karl DODD 7.Ross ALOISI (Captain) 8.Vaughan COVENY 9.Shane SMELTZ 10.Michael FERRANTE 11.DANIEL 12.Richard JOHNSON 14.Steven O’DOR 15.George PALADINI 21.Felipe CAMPOS 22.Royce BROWNLIE 30.Jacob SPOONLEY (gk) *one to be omitted In: Steven O’DOR (return from international duty) Out: Steven OLD (flu – 1 week) Others Unavailable: Tim BROWN (returning from injury – 1 week), Vince LIA (hamstring – 1 week), Mark PASTON (gk) (concussion – 1 week), Costa BARBAROUSES (international duty – 1 week) Impending stats, facts and trivia: In their first home match for 2007/08, the Central Coast Mariners will be looking to recapture their home form which saw them undefeated in the Hyundai A-League for over a year - the Mariners did not lose a home game from Round 14 2005/06 to Round 16 2006/07 (12 matches). Since this formidable streak however there have been no home wins for the Mariners, having lost or drawn the last four Hyundai A-League 2006/07 season matches.

[Beejayville]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Head-to-head First league meeting Previous meeting Central Coast 2 Wellington 0 (Bluetongue Central Coast Stadium, Pre-Season Cup round one, July 2007) Past five results Central Coast: Draw - Win - Loss - Loss - Win Wellington: Win - Loss - Win - Draw - Draw Analysis If the Central Coast Mariners play in the same dynamic fashion as their first-half performance against Sydney and the Phoenix comes out the way it finished the game against Melbourne, Gosford is in for some spectacle on Friday night. The Mariners were rampant during the early stages of last week's 1-0 win with a powerful midfield running rings around their opponent while only the width of the post denied Wellington a dramatic win over the Victory in a frenetic encounter last Sunday. Both match-ups were perfect examples of what most coaches and captains were predicting before season three kicked off - that this year will be the tightest competition in the league's brief history. Indeed, only the Central Coast secured all three points in the opening round thanks to Sasho Petrovski's early strike against his former club, a goal which ended a winless streak of five matches for the visitors. Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna will have to change a winning side, though, with captain Alex Wilkinson ruled out of retaining his place in central defence alongside emerging talent Nigel Boogaard. Wilkinson, who has never before missed a Hyundai A-League match for the Mariners, is set for an extended spell on the treatment table after tearing the medial meniscus in his right knee late in the Sydney clash. Defenders Andrew Clark and Tony Vidmar will be vying to replace the skipper with midfielder Greg Owens, who missed the Pre-Season Cup with a back injury, also looking for a starting place. Phoenix right-back Steven Old has dropped out of the travelling party because of flu which could mean Jeremy Christie, the former Perth Glory player, will revert to defence from midfield. 20-year-old Steven O'Dor has also been added to the squad after returning from international duty with the Qantas Olyroos. That tactical switch would create an inviting space in central midfield for Brazilian flyer Felipe Campos who pressed his claims for a start after a sparkling 25-minute second-half cameo against Melbourne. But coach Ricki Herbert might opt for a more secure engine room even though vice-captain Tim Brown's Hyundai A-League debut has been further delayed by his groin problem. Goalkeeper Glen Moss will continue between the posts with No.1 Mark Paston still feeling the effects of being concussed at training last Friday. Central Coast coach Lawrie McKinna: "We beat them here in the Pre-Season Cup 2-0 but that form goes out the window now. Three points is important because it's a home game, we'll have good support here on Friday night and it's important for our members and the Central Coast public to see us winning at home. It's been four games since we've won here – last season was a bit of a fizzle out and we're focusing on last weeks performance and trying to build on that. We're definitely looking to win the game here on Friday night." Wellington coach Ricki Herbert: "We've acknowledged that we struggled to find our feet in that first 45 minutes in what was a big occasion in front of 14,500 fans for our season opener. So we're looking for improvements across the board and that's something we'll always do – regardless of the result."

[Beejayville]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) CURRENT ODDS Centrebet Mariners $1-75 The Draw $3-30 Phoenix $4-85 Sportingbet Mariners $1-70 The Draw $3-40 Phoenix $5-00 The Mariners should win this game one would think but they are very short considering the away team just come off a 2-2 draw with Melbourne Victory. No respect shown here for Wellington after their great first up effort in the A League ranks, paying $5-00 is hard to fathom.

[Beejayville]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Wilkinson out of Mariners’ home opener Recently announced Qantas Socceroo squad member Dean Heffernan is the headline act of a Mariners squad that will go into a competitive fixture without captain Alex Wilkinson for the first time in their three-year history at Bluetongue Stadium tomorrow night. Though buoyed by today’s selection of Heffernan in Australia’s representation that will tackle Argentina in Melbourne in two weeks time, the Mariners are left to lament the absence of their inspirational skipper, who may be sidelined for an extended period after tearing his medial meniscus in last Friday’s Hyundai A-League season opener. Wilkinson’s absence opens the door for Socceroo legend Tony Vidmar and experienced local campaigner Andrew Clark to lead from the back for the Central Coast, after both missed selection for last Friday’s triumph at the Sydney Football Stadium. Aside from Wilkinson’s concern, the Mariners are at full strength for their match up against first round surprise packets the Wellington Phoenix, who were outstanding in their 2-2 draw against reigning champions the Melbourne Victory last Sunday. "We beat them here in the Pre-Season Cup 2-0, but that form goes out the window now," said Mariners Football Manager Lawrie McKinna. "Three points is important because it’s a home game, we’ll have good support here on Friday night and it’s important for our Members and the Central Coast public to see us winning at home. "It’s been four games since we’ve won here – last season was a bit of a fizzle out and we’re focusing on last weeks performance and trying to build on that – we’re definitely looking to win the game here on Friday night." By virtue of every other round one fixture finishing in a draw, the Mariners are top of the Hyundai A-League ladder for the first time in their history. The Mariners previous best ladder position was in season one, when Lawrie McKinna’s charges peaked at second place in rounds one and five. The Mariners’ win at the Sydney Football Stadium last Friday also ended a club record winless Hyundai A-League streak of five matches – stretching back to mid-December 2006. Prior to last Friday’s win, the Central Coast’s last Hyundai A-League success was at home to the Perth Glory in December 2006, where Adam Kwasnik netted the winning goal in a 1-0 win to the home side. The Mariners’ head to head record with Friday’s opponents, the Wellington Phoenix, is a brief one. The Mariners have only met the Hyundai A-League newcomers on one occasion previously, that being in the opening round of the 2007 Pre-Season Cup – a match won 2-0 by the Mariners in front of 8,136 spectators at Bluetongue Stadium. Goal scorers for the Mariners on the evening were injured captain Wilkinson and striker Kwasnik. The Mariners’ strongest connection to their Trans Tasman rivals is Wayne O’Sullivan, who contributed 47 competitive appearances to the Central Coast before being appointed as the Phoenix’s assistant coach for 2007/08. "Against Melbourne, Wellington never gave up – with ten minutes to go they were down 2-0 and not in the game and then the last ten minutes they were fantastic," said Mariners Football Manager Lawrie McKinna. "At the finish up they were unlucky not to win the game, they hit the post and Smeltz missed a good header. "It’s going to be a hard game, physically they really work hard and I’m sure they’ll be up for the game – they’ll be full of confidence after

[coolcricket]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Thanks for the fantastic info Beejayville. :clap My early thought for this match is the draw at 3.40+. The Mariners midfield really dominated Sydney's last match, and I think Petrovski will have a good season in terms of goals. Wellington played much better in the 2nd half than they did in the 1st half against Melbourne, and their Brazilian players seem to add significant spark to their team. Will be back tomorrow arvo to discuss the match in more detail. Good Luck all.

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Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) My early thoughts during the week were for Central Coast and not much has changed. Wellington proved they will be no easy beats this year with a good performance against Melbourne at home, but this is the first time they will have to travel out of their country and its a long flight up to the Central Coast. Central Coast put in a fantastic performance themselves last week against Sydney who are a premiership chance, so i fancy them to repeat that this week. Central Coast struggled to score last year, but the inclusion of Sasho Petrovski and Nik Mrdja paid imediate dividends last week as Petrovski scored the winner against his old club, while Mrdja was very solid. These two will be a very potent attacking force this year. Wellington played well last week, but it was their last 20 minutes of play which helped get them over the line agaisnt Melbourne. They scored 2 goals in the last 10 mins and could of scored a winner right at the death, but the first 70mins they were a bit lacklustre in defence and Melbourne should really have finished them off. Both teams have no major injury concerns and there should be a fantastic crowd here tonight. However i just think Central Coast will be a bit too strong and believe they should win this 2-0 or 2-1. Pick Central Coast WIN at $1.75 - Centrebet

[Beejayville]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Central Coast Mariners vs Wellington Phoenix Should be a very good game tonight between the Mariners and new kids on the block Wellington. The Mariners were superb last week against Sydney with Petrovski and Mrdja standouts up front which has finally solved one of Central Coast's main problems from last year, and that was scoring options up front. They looked a lot better offensively and combined with Gumprecht in the midfield, Heffernan, Boogaard and now Vidmar down back the home team are looking a powerful unit. Wellington almost snatched an unlikely win last week against last year's premiers Melbourne after being two goals down. Their last 20 minutes was sensational and if not for a couple of ordinary finishing efforts they would have beaten Melbourne. Aloisi was good for the Phoenix although he is not one of my favourite players. Shane Smeltz was another who looked like he might be a player and he was constantly dangerous up forward. Michael Ferrante tried hard on the day and the Brazilian Daniel proved a handful and scored Wellington's first goal in the A League. O'Dor also makes a welcome return to Wellington and he will add a bit of steel to the team.

	Shots	On Target	Goals	Ave per Goal	0-45	45-90	Per Match	Avg Min.	GF every
CC Mariners	17	9	1	17	100%	0%	1	7	90 min.
Wellington	18	3	2	9	0%	100%	2	73	45 min.

Central Coast were pretty impressive last week against the Juninho led Sydney and I am very confident of them carrying that form into this game and proving too strong for the Phoenix. They had many shots and were unlucky not to score a few more goals. The away team will be bouyed by their final 20 minutes last week, but it was against a Melbourne defence that is still getting used to each other. The Mariners look too strong all over the park and their defence should prove to be much too strong Central Coast Mariners to WIN @ $1-75

[coolcricket]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Hi guys, Looking forward to this match, should be entertaining. I still like the draw in this one. The Mariners have a solid team, but played against a toothless tiger in Sydney ( I'm a Sydney Fan) last week, Sydney seemed afraid to have a go at goal, and I think Wellington will be more adventurous in going forward than Sydney was. Not sure what to make of Wellington's defence, but I'm sure they are again capable of letting in a goal or two. In my opinion (so far this season)- Mariners Defence - 7.5/10 Midfield - 8/10 Attack - 7.5/10 Wellington Defence - 7/10 Midfield - 7.5/10 Attack - 7.5/10 Think the teams are pretty even, and will play out a scoring draw. 1-1 or 2-2. My pick is the DRAW at 4.4 (Betfair). - like the odds!- Good luck with your selection Ads (but not too much;)) and everyone else.:hope

[Beejayville]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Live Web Broadcast of Mariners/Wellington game http://www.coastfm.org.au/ Game starts at 8pm (AEST)

[coolcricket]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Good luck with your bet as well Beejayville!

[Beejayville]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Cheers Cool :cheers Guess if me and Ads can't get the Mariners up then let's hope for a draw for you :ok

[AJ]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) looks a big test for wellington, these are the games where we'll how good they are. Looks a nailed on home win for me though

[ads25]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Wellington cant be underestimated, but i havnt seen enough of them, while Central Coast have a solid team this year and will push for the finals. Wellington werent brilliant last week, but once they got going in the last 20 mins they looked irresistible. Will be a fantastic game either way

[Matty]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) 3-0 Mariners after 35 mins :D Good start to today....... :ok

[coolcricket]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Well done ads and beejayville:clap, CC blew Wellington out of the game early. Better 2nd half from the Phoenix, but a really good second half from the Central Coast defence. Seems I underestimated CC's defence, oh well, 3 more games to go this weekend.:)

[petkar66]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Thx guys:nana Good way to start the day

[Beejayville]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Central Coast Mariners 3 - 0 Wellington Phoenix 7m Nik Mrdja 13m Adam Kwasnik 34m Nik Mrdja The Central Coast Mariners have brought the Wellington Phoenix back to earth with a 3-0 drubbing at Bluetongue Central Coast Stadium in their Hyundai A-League game on Friday night. Just one week after scoring a come-from-behind 2-2 draw against the Melbourne Victory the Phoenix were outclassed by a slick Mariners outfit that have put together impressive back-to-back victories to sit atop the Hyundai A-League table after two rounds. Mariners forward Nik Mrdja rewarded the 9,052-strong home crowd by netting a brace, his first home goals ever in the Hyundai A-League, with Adam Kwasnik also getting on the scorers' sheet as the Mariners had the game virtually sewn up leading 3-0 at half time. Mrdja opened the scoring with a beautifully taken chance in the seventh minute after left back Dean Heffernan had turned Steven O'Dor inside out before slipping the ball to Mrdja inside the penalty area. The lanky forward danced his way through three defenders before firing a low shot into the far corner of the net. Mrdja turned provider just six minutes later when he bamboozled the Phoenix defence before sending the ball out to an unmarked Kwasnik wide on the left who drilled a shot from the outside of his left boot past Wellington keeper Glen Moss. The Phoenix had a couple of good chances but they were few and far between. A nice through ball from Michael Ferrante put Vaughan Coveney away for the Phoenix but a copybook sliding tackle from veteran Tony Vidmar inside the penalty area relieved the situation. Mrdja grabbed his second just after the after the Phoenix failed to adequately clear the ball following a corner. Matthew Osman sent a looping ball to the far post for Kwasnik to feather a touch back across goal where Mrdja turned the ball past Wellington keeper Glen Moss. Ferrante blew the visitors best chance of the first half when he found himself in space directly in front of goal on the edge of area but he sent his shot over the bar. Mrdja went close with a header from a pinpoint cross from strike partner Sasho Petrovski, but the score remained 3-0 at the break. The Phoenix came out with more determination in the second half and probably had the better of play hitting the bar on two occasions – a header from skipper Ross Aloisi and a vicious left footer from substitute Felipe that rocketed off the crossbar from 18 out. Mrdja went close to grabbing his hat-trick when he turned Karl Dodd inside out to weave his way inside the six-yard box but he ballooned his shot over the bar. Crowd 9, 052 at Bluetongue Central Coast Stadium

[Beejayville]

Re: A League Round 2 - Central Coast v Wellington (Fri 31st Aug - 8pm) Just got home and watched the game and sensational win to Central Coast and they were never in doubt. Nik Mrdja was spectacular up forward and the game was over within 30 minutes when the Mariners had 3 goals on the board. Gumbrecht was again outstanding in the midfield while Adam Kwasnik had another good game down the left side. Heffernan and Boogaard down back were impenetrable and Heffernan gave a lot of drive down the left flank. With Vidmar steady in defence the Phoenix never really troubled the home side. To Wellington's credit they played a really good second half and Shane Smeltz was again a good player for the away side. They had a good chance when a shot hit the underside of the crossbar and bounced back into play, but that was about their only clear chance. Wellington battled hard but Central Coast were far too good. Good result again with the Mariners getting up at $1-75 and it was a good price really considering the way they played against Sydney last week. Great start to the weekend!!!