A-League
Adelaide United Overpowers Central Coast Mariner
Reds Run Riot with a 4-0 Victory to Extend Unbeaten Streak
Adelaide United sent a clear message to the Isuzu UTE A-League with a resounding 4-0 victory over the reigning two-time champions Central Coast Mariners, asserting their dominance and maintaining an unbeaten start to the season.
Adelaide United’s Commanding Triumph
Adelaide United lit up Industree Group Stadium with a masterclass performance on Friday night, dismantling the Central Coast Mariners for their first win in Gosford since 2019. Goals from Archie Goodwin, Panagiotis Kikianis, Stefan Mauk, and Yaya Dukuly underscored the Reds’ relentless intent as they edged within a point of league-leaders Auckland FC.
For the Mariners, the loss was a sobering blow, leaving them in seventh place, nine points adrift of the top spot.
Carl Veart’s Tactical Brilliance
Reds head coach Carl Veart credited his team’s commitment and focus for their success:
“We started strong, maintaining possession and creating opportunities,” Veart told Paramount+.
“At halftime, I reminded the players to sustain their effort and focus. In the second half, they delivered a full 45 minutes of intensity.”
Mark Jackson Reflects on Mariners’ Struggles
Mariners coach Mark Jackson offered a blunt assessment:
“There are no positives from a defeat like this,” he admitted. “We need to stay disciplined and compact out of possession. Until we embrace that identity consistently, success will elude us.”
How the Match Unfolded
Adelaide’s intent was evident from the kickoff. Archie Goodwin’s early chance in the third minute, courtesy of a clever through-ball from Clough, was thwarted by a brilliant sliding tackle from Brian Kaltak.
Goodwin made no mistake nine minutes later, pouncing on a loose ball at the halfway line, sprinting into the penalty area, and beating Mariners goalkeeper Dylan Peraic-Cullen to open the scoring.
Kikianis Doubles the Advantage
Four minutes into the second half, Clough once again orchestrated the attack, delivering a pinpoint cross to Panagiotis Kikianis, whose emphatic volley doubled the Reds’ lead.
Reds’ Onslaught Continues
Adelaide showcased their fluid team play with Stefan Mauk scoring the third goal in the 60th minute, a result of seamless interplay that left the Mariners’ defense in disarray. Mauk’s strike marked his third goal in four games, reaffirming his fine form.
Substitute Yaya Dukuly added the final flourish in the 73rd minute. Making his first appearance of the season, Dukuly unleashed a thunderous shot that ricocheted off the post and into the net, capping off a near-perfect night for the visitors.
A Tough Road Ahead
Adelaide United now eyes equaling their 2010-11 record of an eight-game unbeaten streak. For the Mariners, the challenge lies in regaining their form and reestablishing discipline as they navigate a tumultuous start to their title defense.
