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You might be new to the A-Leagues (in which case: welcome! We’ve got plenty of apathy and cynicism to go around!), so you might not know the story of the Central Coast Mariners or why so many people are rooting for them tonight.
In a nutshell, when the club was first founded back in the early 2000s, they were the only side in the A-League Men that represented a regional town (Gosford). Every other club was attached to a big metropolitan city.
This small-town character actually worked in the Mariners’ favour. Their entire community got around the team, and their foundations were build upon developing young local players and engaging with local businesses.
They became one of the most successful clubs in the men’s competition quite early on, and even developed a bunch of Socceroos, including current captain and goalkeeper Maty Ryan.
But they fell on hard times over the past decade, with their former owner trying to run the club on the smell of an oily rag. Their results tanked, their best players left, and their community all but walked away.
However, three years ago, a new owner took over and has totally turned things around.
Now, they’ve not only recaptured their glory days, but arguably surpassed them. And the fact they’re now hosting tonight’s grand final at the same rocking stadium in Gosford that’s become so beloved by A-League fans is a testament to their bigger rollercoaster journey.
You can read more about the Mariners in this feature I wrote a few weeks ago if you’d like. As far as I’m concerned, they are proof of what every A-League club should be aspiring to. They’re doing everything right, and show what is possible for this flailing competition. They almost make you believe it can turn into something great.
