Fresh from scoring his first goal from open play for the Central Coast Mariners, and as the team prepares for a table-topping blockbuster with Adelaide United, Patricio Perez has declared he has reached a comfort zone in the Hyundai A-League.
Fresh from scoring his first goal from open play for the Central Coast Mariners, and as the team prepares for a table-topping blockbuster with Adelaide United, Patricio Perez has declared he has reached a comfort zone in the Hyundai A-League.
After overcoming injury, the Argentine excitement machine has been a standout for the Mariners in recent weeks as the side has pushed into the top two, and, speaking through interpreter and Mariner goalkeeping coach John Crawley, Perez says he is happy with the level his game is currently at.
“It-s good to have played a few consecutive games now so I have my regular rhythm. That is always important to get into the competition, and I feel a lot more comfortable now with where I am at,” said Perez.
Of his breakthrough goal to help the side to a 2-all draw with Sydney FC and consolidate their spot in second spot, Perez says he-s delighted he was able to contribute to the comeback.
“I-m very happy. I had the fortune of getting into the area and I was just happy it went in, I am pretty happy with my performance,” Perez said.
A fan favourite at Bluetongue Stadium, Perez says he appreciates the welcome he has received from the Yellow and Navy faithful since his arrival on the Central Coast, and says that relationship is well and truly reciprocated.
“It-s important that the supporters are happy and I am glad I can contribute to that. It is important that they are happy particularly coming into finals time, it is all about the supporters. I am happy that they are happy and if I can continue to contribute to that then it is good,” said Perez.
Perez has his sights set on Saturday-s massive clash with Adelaide United at Hindmarsh Stadium, with the Mariners heading into the clash a point clear of the third placed Reds, this battle could go a long way to deciding who finishes second in 2010/11.
“Of the remaining games this is the most important one. If we can win this one we can obviously get ahead of them and have a very good chance of getting second spot. It-s very important but it-s also important we play well in the other remaining games so we can go into the finals with some good form behind us,” said Perez.
Almost halfway through a two-year deal, Perez says he is loving life on the Central Coast, and intends sticking around long after helping Graham Arnold to his first finals appearance as a Hyundai A-League Head Coach.
“I am really enjoying my time here and what the area has to offer. It is important for me and my wife to be happy so that side of things is easy, and I can concentrate on my football which makes life all that much more easier,” Perez said.
The Mariners next match of the Hyundai A-League 2010/11 season will be against Adelaide United at Hindmarsh Stadium this Saturday, 29 January. Kick-off is at 7:00pm CST (7:30pm AEDT).
