On a Sunday which featured all academy sides at Pluim Park, the academy women grabbed an important three points from Nepean FC while the men fell to a disappointing 2-1 defeat to St George City.
Central Coast Mariners Academy Women 2 (Wise 33’. Tucker 70’) Nepean FC 0
This game promised to be a very exciting fixture with both sides in form heading into this weekend’s clash.
Dan Barratt’s side came out with an attacking intent, but Nepean FC held on and kept the score level. Danielle Wise grabbed her fifteenth goal of the season grabbing the lead for the academy girls. The women were able to hold the lead until the half time break after a Nepean attack.
The girls were able to keep the same pace in the second half, being able to trouble the Nepean goal several times. It wasn’t until the 70th minute where Mikala Tucker was able to double the score line and give the girls breathing space. The girls put in a strong performance, being able to keep a 2-0 lead to the full-time whistle.
The win launches the academy girls in the top 5 with a home fixture against Marconi Stallions next Sunday at Pluim.
Earlier Results:
U14s: WON 3-2
U15s: WON 3-1
U17s: DREW 1-1
Reserve Grade: LOST 7-2
Central Coast Mariners Academy 1 (Hatch 31’) St George City 2
It was an important game for both sides as the battle for the top six started to heat up.
It was a strong start for St George City, but Aidan Munford was able to pull of incredible saves to keep the scores level. It wasn’t until the 31st minute where Matthew Hatch scored his first of the season to give the academy boys the lead against the run of play. The home side weren’t able to capitalise on the goal and were caught out after a swift counter which saw early sub Reuben Awaritefe equalise just before the break.
The start to the second half was forgettable for the men’s academy as City were able to grab the lead after a free kick early in the half. The home side fought hard to try and find an equaliser but could not get the breakthrough they needed come the full time whistle.
The loss leaves the men’s academy in ninth place with a crucial game next week against Rydalmere Lions next Saturday night.
Earlier Results:
U18s: DRAW 2-2
U20s: WON 2-1
