This Sunday the Central Coast Mariners Academy men’s teams are back at Pluim Park whilst the women play away to the table topping Sydney Olympic. We caught up with the coaches to preview their respective clashes in the PS4 NPL 2.
Central Coast Mariners Academy vs. Parramatta FC
The Mariners Academy currently sit third on the ladder and are coming off the back of a mid-week 3-3 draw with Blacktown Spartans after conceding a heartbreaking equaliser.
That being said, after a long stint on the road the Mariners Academy Men remain undefeated and return to Pluim Park this Sunday in what is shaping up to be a ‘high quality football match’ according to Will Vazquez.
“On Wednesday night, we had a tough mid-week catch up against Blacktown Spartans that really tested the character of the squad,” Vazquez said. “Unfortunately, we were unable to maintain concentration for the full 90, and conceded a late equaliser in a game we should have been able to see out.
“However, once again this gives us a good point of reference to improve upon, and I’m sure this will allow us to learn and be ready for the next test.
“This weekend we face a technical opponent who we expect to be very effective with the ball, so once again this will be a great opportunity for a high-quality football match in which the boys can show their qualities as well as their character to get the win,” Vazquez said.
Match Details
Sunday, 15 April 2018
PS4 NPL 2 Round 7
Match: Central Coast Mariners Academy vs. Parramatta FC
Venue: Pluim Park, Lisarow
Kick-off: 3:00pm
Sydney Olympic FC Women vs. Central Coast Mariners Academy Women
The Mariners’ women are in a goal scoring mood at the moment having won their last outing 8-1 where striker Candice Phelan scored her 10th goal of the season in just four games. They sit in fourth place on the ladder with a game in hand.
Despite a convincing win, Barrett says there is plenty his side must to do improve on their second half showing if they are to beat first-placed Olympic.
“This weekend’s match against league leaders Olympic will definitely be our greatest test,” Barrett said. “Their squad is boosting exceptional experience and their results thus far back that up. We are going to have to be at our best this Sunday, that is certain.
“We came away last weekend off the back of a big win dissatisfied with our second half performance. The first half was clinical, organised and calculated. The second half we lacked care in possession giving the ball away on too many occasions and our composure and decision making in-front of goal was simply not good enough.
“I will be calling on two solid consistent halves of football this weekend from our players. The squad is more than capable of doing this and it will be key to a successful outcome this Sunday.
“Discipline will also be the key. All players must do their jobs. If we do this, we win.
“I am really looking forward to this challenge and so are the team,” Barrett said.
Match Details
Sunday, 15 April 2018
PS4 NPL 2 Round 6
Match: Sydney Olympic FC Women vs. Central Coast Mariners Academy Women
Venue: Peter Moore Field
Kick-off: 3:00pm
