Post match fireworks and late drama capped off a pulsating New Year’s Eve double header as Central Coast Mariners men fell 2-1 to Brisbane Roar in the Isuzu UTE A-League at ‘Our Paradise’ Polytec Stadium.
A festive buzz filled the stands in Gosford as both sides started at full throttle. Brisbane striker Chris Long tested Mariners keeper Andrew Redmayne early, before the Roar struck first in the 22nd minute when Long combined with Michael Ruhs, who calmly slotted home.
The Mariners hit back six minutes later, with a well worked corner seeing Lucas Mauragis fire a deflected effort into the net to level proceedings. Nathan Paull went close soon after with a header, while tempers flared as Brisbane picked up multiple yellow cards, followed by Roar coach Michael Valkanis being sent off after receiving two cautions.
The second half matched the intensity of the first. Mauragis narrowly missed the chance to double his tally, while substitute Christian Theoharous threatened in the box. Redmayne produced a superb double save in the 87th minute to keep the scores level, but heartbreak followed soon after as Roar captain Jay O’Shea delivered a pinpoint cross that was headed home by Justin Vidic, sealing the result late.
Post match, Mariners coach Warren Moon said – ‘It’s a massive disappointment. We probably had the better of the game and the chances to win it, but we’ve come away with nothing.’
The Mariners now look to an away clash against Adelaide United FC this Sunday 4 January, kick off 7:35pm.