CENTRAL Coast Mariners midfielder Michael McGlinchey made his debut appearance at the 2012 London Olympics overnight, however unfortunately the OIywhites’ campaign began in defeat.

CENTRAL Coast Mariners midfielder Michael McGlinchey made his debut appearance at the 2012 London Olympics overnight, however unfortunately the OIywhites- campaign began in defeat.

Playing Belarus in Coventry, McGlinchey and his team mates suffered a hammer blow just before half-time when Kiwi goalkeeper Michael O-Keefe misjudged a corner, leaving Belarusian midfielder Dmitry Baga free at the back post.

Baga made no mistake with his opportunity, nodding the ball into the back of the net from close range.

McGlinchey started and played all 90 minutes for the OIywhites.

McGlinchey and his team mates, including Perth Glory marksman Shane Smeltz, must now travel to Manchester-s revered Old Trafford stadium where they will face Egypt on Monday morning (AEST).

Egypt lost 3-2 to a star-studded Brazil outfit including big names Neymar and Hulk in Group C-s other fixture this morning.

The clash with the Hany Ramzy coached Egypt side now shapes as a must win clash for Neil Emblen-s New Zealand team.