A 24th birthday is usually reason enough to celebrate, but Jordan Murray will have the chance for an extra special birthday as the Central Coast Mariners host Adelaide United in an FFA Cup semi-final tonight.
The winner will take on Melbourne City in the final after their win against Brisbane Strikers on Tuesday, and Murray said earlier in the week that the match is a huge occasion for the club.
“It’s really exciting for the players and the club and we want to put in a really good performance,” he said ahead of training.
“It has been a really good week in training and some of the games we’ve played in before this game we have had positive results, and we are just looking forward to the game, putting on a good show and hopefully walking away with the win.”
Tomorrow's birthday boy @jordanmurray28 caught up with the media this morning to chat about our blockbuster @FFACup semi-final against @AdelaideUnited. #CCMFC #MagicofTheCup
Get your tickets now for Muzz's 24th birthday party at @CCStadium ?? https://t.co/xf3YeJtGBk pic.twitter.com/LYhUkzCa1W— Central Coast Mariners (@CCMariners) October 1, 2019
Murray scored twice in the win against North Shore Mariners last Wednesday at Pluim Park and said that more competition for spots has helped push him to a new level in training and matches.
“Matty Simon is a seasoned veteran, he’s someone I look up to and it’s good to have competition, it brings the best out of everyone.”
“We’ve got the likes of Sammy Silvera and Abraham Majok who have come into the team and boosted the squad, which has boosted my training and makes it a lot harder to cement a spot which is brilliant.
“I know it’s bringing the best out of me, so I’m looking forward to having a good season with Matty and the team and pushing myself to be the best player I can be.”
For Murray the day is extra special as he turns 24, a day before Milan Đurić celebrates his own birthday, but said his focus is solely on grabbing a win for the team.
“It would be a great birthday present,” he said laughing.
That is in the back of my mind but we’re going out there for the fans tomorrow and to get a win with the boys.”
With a big crowd expected, avoid the lines and grab your tickets now for tonight’s clash!
