Central Coast Mariners kick off 2025 with a trip to Brisbane Roar in Round 12 of the 2024/25 Isuzu UTE A-League.
Mark Jackson’s side face another quick turnaround after a hard-earned 1-1 draw with Melbourne City on New Years Eve.
The trip to Brisbane is the first of five consecutive away games in January, before the Mariners return home on February 1st for a huge F3 Derby Double Header.
🔎 Brisbane Roar
It’s been a record breaking start for Ruben Zadkovich’s men, but for all the wrong reasons. Two points from their first nine games has them bottom of the table, with the worst record at this stage in A-League Men’s history. They are also yet to pick up a point at home.
Last time out, a 1-0 loss away to Western made it back to back 1-0 defeats. Zadkovich has reiterated his confidence in his young side after a string of close defeats, including 3-2 losses to Adelaide and Sydney.
Those results show that Brisbane’s form and place on the table, do not mean the Mariners are in for an easy ride at Suncorp on Friday evening.
The one to watch for Roar is young striker Thomas Waddingham, the 19-year-old continues to make waves in the A-League despite his side’s struggles. He has four goals and an assist to his name this season, marking himself as one of Australia’s hottest young talents and reportedly attracting interest from some big European clubs.
⏮ Previously vs Brisbane Roar
Brisbane have historically been a tricky opponent for the Mariners, in 61 meetings with Roar, the Mariners have won only 13, with 34 losses our highest against any A-League opponent.
Last season, Mark Jackson began to turn that tide a little, despite losing to Roar in Round Four, the Mariners then won 3-0 at Suncorp Stadium in Round Nine and 2-0 at Our Paradise in Round 14.
🗣 Mark Jackson “We are ready to attack the game and get three points”
Jacko confirmed the return of Ryan Edmondson to the matchday squad, speaking to the media ahead of the squad’s trip to Brisbane. He also reflected on a ‘solid team performance’ against Melbourne City, preparation for Roar on a tight turnaround and much more.
🗣 Nathan Paull “I’m learning every day”
Currently enjoying a strong run in the side, the big defender had his biggest moment so far on New Years Eve as he headed in his first senior goal. He spoke to the media about the emotion when the ball hit the back of the net, and how he is learning every day from the senior players around him.
The 21-year-old also discussed what he expects from Brisbane, building momentum as a squad and more.
