Central Coast Mariners goalkeeper Paul Henderson has taken time out from preparations for tonight’s rescheduled week 19 Hyundai A-League clash with Gold Coast United, to mix it with players from the NRL’s indigenous All Stars team, preparing for Saturday’s match against the NRL All Stars on the Gold Coast.
Central Coast Mariners goalkeeper Paul Henderson has taken time out from preparations for tonight-s rescheduled week 19 Hyundai A-League clash with Gold Coast United, to mix it with players from the NRL-s indigenous All Stars team, preparing for Saturday-s match against the NRL All Stars on the Gold Coast.
“I know a few of the boys from my time in North Queensland and they are staying at our hotel here on the Gold Coast so it has been great to catch up with them and after chatting to (Indigenous All Stars Assistant Coach) Gorden Tallis, I was invited to have a look at them train which was fantastic.
“It-s always good to get an insight into how professional footballers from other codes train and prepare for games, and I can tell you it-s pretty intense.
“They are all big boys but they are fantastic athletes and all great guys, so I wish them all the best for Saturday night,” said Henderson.
The goalkeeper, who has spent time at English sides Bradford City and Leicester City during his career, has an Indigenous heritage and is impressed by the work the side has done off the field this week.
“They have an unbelievably busy schedule meeting kids from local schools and teams, and it-s great to see the work they are putting into the community,” said Henderson.
While the shot-stopper enjoyed his time amongst the squad, his attention is now focussed on tonight-s clash with Gold Coast United at Skilled Park, where just a point can seal second spot for the Mariners, and a double chance in the finals, where they would face Brisbane Roar in a two-legged non-elimination Grand Final qualifier.
“It-s a massive game, we are all aware of that and the boys have prepared very well. Arnie has told the boys what to expect from Gold Coast, we know they have to win to keep their hopes of second place alive, but we are ready, and confident we can get the job done.
“We can then head back to Bluetongue Stadium on Sunday and enjoy the day with our fans as hopefully we can beat Newcastle and finish the season on a real high,” said Henderson.
The Central Coast Mariners final match of the Hyundai A-League 2010/11 regular season will be against Newcastle Jets this Sunday, 13 February at Bluetongue Stadium, Gosford. Kick-off is at 5:00pm AEDT and tickets are available by CLICKING HERE or by phoning 132 849.
