Mariners Fall Short Against Vissel Kobe in Thrilling ACL Clash

Central Coast Mariners Head Coach Mark Jackson expressed immense pride in his team despite a hard-fought 3-2 loss to reigning J1 League champions Vissel Kobe in Tuesday night’s AFC Champions League fixture. The match, played in front of a vibrant home crowd in Japan, showcased the Mariners’ grit and determination, though they ultimately fell short of securing points.

A Grueling Schedule Tests the Mariners

Having triumphed in the F3 Derby just four days earlier, the Mariners traveled over 7,000 kilometers to take on a formidable Vissel Kobe side. The team found themselves two goals down shortly after the break, but a spirited comeback saw them draw level late in the game before an unfortunate goal sealed their defeat.

“We are immensely proud of the performance last night,” said Jackson. “It was a very good and disciplined display against very strong opposition. We were so close to getting a result, and I thought that we deserved one as well.”

Resilience on Full Display

Tuesday’s match marked the second consecutive Champions League game in which the Mariners battled back from a two-goal deficit. Against Shanghai Shenhua earlier in the competition, they displayed similar resolve, highlighting their ability to rise to the occasion.

“To come back from two-nil down to level the game shows the mentality of the team,” Jackson continued. “It demonstrates their belief in what we’re trying to achieve as a group.”

Jackson praised the team’s resilience and courage, particularly in the face of a passionate Vissel Kobe crowd.

“The boys’ heads could have dropped, but they stayed focused and pushed back into the game. Their mindset, quality, and discipline to recover after going behind is something we’re really proud of.”

Fans Make Their Presence Felt

A highlight of the evening was the dedicated group of Mariners fans who made the journey to Kobe. Their unwavering support was evident both at the stadium and on the broadcast.

“Our fans last night were incredible,” Jackson said. “Despite the home crowd’s intensity, you could still hear our supporters cheering us on. We’re so thankful for those who traveled and for everyone who supported us from home.”

Jackson emphasized the players’ gratitude, noting how much the team values the fans’ commitment.

Looking Ahead: Yokohama F. Marinos Await

With a bye this weekend in the Isuzu UTE A-League, the Mariners are already preparing for their next challenge: a home clash against Yokohama F. Marinos in the AFC Champions League. The match holds added significance as it marks the return of Mariners legend John Hutchinson, now serving as the Japanese club’s interim coach.

“Now that the game is finished, we focus on recovery and preparation to take on Yokohama,” Jackson explained. “We know it will be another tough match, but we’re ready to attack it back at home.”

Join the Action

Watch your Central Coast Mariners take on Yokohama F. Marinos in their final Champions League match of 2024. Don’t miss the opportunity to support the team in what promises to be an electrifying encounter.