A-League
Mariners Turn Derby Despair into Triumph: Comeback Win Over Jets
Mariners Break Winless Streak with F3 Derby Drama
The Central Coast Mariners clinched their first victory of the A-League season with a 2-1 comeback win against Newcastle Jets during Friday night’s Unite Round showdown.
Despite dominating the first half without finding the back of the net, the Mariners fell behind to a Thomas Aquilina strike in the 64th minute. However, their resilience shone through as Brian Kaltak equalized just two minutes later, and an unfortunate Aleksandar Šuśnjar own goal sealed the Mariners’ much-needed win.
This derby triumph ended the Mariners’ frustrating four-game winless run, reigniting their campaign while adding another chapter to the heated F3 Derby rivalry.
A Tale of Two Halves: Mariners Struggle Before Seizing Control
The Mariners controlled the opening exchanges, creating a flurry of chances but failing to capitalize. Harrison Steele’s 12th-minute effort from a tight angle was saved by Jets keeper Ryan Scott, and Alou Kuol missed a golden opportunity with a wayward strike after slipping in front of goal.
In contrast, the Jets had a quiet first half but almost broke the deadlock in the second when Dane Ingham sent a free header over the bar in a major let-off for the Mariners.
“We knew we had to stay focused despite missing chances. It’s all about keeping pressure on, and the result will come,” said Mariners coach Mark Jackson.
Quickfire Goals Flip the Script
The game burst to life in the second half when Jets substitute Ben Gibson made an immediate impact, assisting Aquilina’s 64th-minute opener. But the lead was short-lived.
Just two minutes later, Brian Kaltak capitalized on a goalkeeper error, flicking a lofted header into the net to bring the Mariners level. Then, in the 75th minute, Lucas Mauragis delivered a dangerous cross into the Jets’ six-yard box, forcing an own goal from Šuśnjar to complete the Mariners’ dramatic comeback.
Unite Round Action Continues
The victory sets the tone for a thrilling Unite Round weekend at Allianz Stadium, featuring key matchups across the A-League:
- Saturday, November 23:
5:00 PM – Brisbane Roar vs Adelaide United
7:35 PM – Sydney FC vs Western Sydney Wanderers - Sunday, November 24:
1:30 PM – Wellington Phoenix vs Melbourne Victory
4:00 PM – Macarthur FC vs Auckland FC
