Mariners Draw First Blood
Posted by Jasper Reed in A-League, Central Coast Mariners | 11 February 2006
Newcastle United 0 Central Coast Mariners 1
Central Coast Mariners won the A League's first finals game last night, overcoming the Jets 1 - 0 in Newcastle. A Michael Osman header with 15 minutes remaining was enough to see off a determined Newcastle side, pouncing on looose ball after Jets keeper Liam Reddy had saved well from Noel Spencer. Both goalkeepers had outstanding games to keep the sides level until late in the game, and Reddy made a stunning stop in the final minute from Wayne O'Sullivan to keep Newcastle in the tie.
It was a much improved performance from Newcastle, with the Mariner's restricted to counter attacking football for much of the contest, and they were unlucky to end their last home game of the season with nothing.
The Mariners have now avoided defeat for a record 10 straight games, and need only a draw at home next Friday to advance to the Preliminary final.
