It is a season-defining day for Central Coast Mariners Academy Men as they take on Western Sydney Wanderers Academy at Pluim Park, kick-off 3pm.
It is all on the line at the bottom end of the NPL NSW ladder, with the Mariners sitting one point above Sunday’s opponents and crucially, outside the bottom two.
The side that finishes bottom of the ladder will be automatically relegated to NPL NSW League One, with 15th place entering a relegation play-off.
The other match that could affect things at the bottom is Mount Druitt vs NWS Spirit, but the message is clear for the Mariners; win and we’re safe.
Via flascore.com.au.
Both teams come into the game having won one, drawn two and lost two of their last five, with Wanderers winning last time out against mid-table St George FC, whilst the Mariners lost to newly-crowned Premiers NWS Spirit.
The Mariners will take confidence from their home form, with all but one of their wins this season coming at Pluim Park, which they have made a real fortress – taking points off the likes of Marconi Stallions and Rockdale Illinden who both sit in the top four.
The previous meeting between the Mariners and Wanderers saw Vilela’s side twice battle back from a goal down to rescue a 2-2 draw at Wanderers Football Park, with goals coming from Jai Rose and Harper Ryles (swipe to see the goals below, via NPL NSW Instagram).
The Mariners will be prepared to face a Wanderers Academy side littered with first team players, with the Red and Black dropping the likes of Aydan Hammond, Aidan Simmons and Anthony Pantazopoulos down for the last NPL NSW fixtures to boost their hopes of survival.
The one to watch for the Mariners is exciting attacker Jai Rose, who has caused problems for every defence he has faced so far this season.
With so much on the line, it is sure to be a thrilling final round. Get down to support the team, with free entry at Pluim Park. The game will also be streamed live on the Football NSW YouTube Channel.
