Auckland FC returned to winning ways with a commanding 4-1 away victory over the Central Coast Mariners. In an action-packed clash Auckland avenged last week’s defeat to maintain their position at the top of the league table.
Heading into the game, Auckland FC welcomed the experienced Tommy Smith to the starting lineup at centre-back. This allowed Hiroki Sakai to shift to his preferred role at right-back, a tactical adjustment by head coach Steve Corica to compensate for the absence of former Central Coast Mariner Dan Hall.
It was a switch that soon paid off. Auckland struck first in the 22nd minute, with captain Sakai leading by example. A well-recycled corner saw Francis de Vries deliver a perfectly timed cross, which Sakai headed beyond Dylan-Peraic Cullen. 1-0 Auckland.
However, the lead was short-lived. Just three minutes later, Alfie McCalmont equalised for the Mariners stunningly. Mikael Doka’s quick thinking on a free kick set up McCalmont, whose deflected shot left Auckland goalkeeper Paulsen helpless. The scores were level at 1-1, and the game was wide open.
Auckland reclaimed the lead with a moment of pure artistry from Jake Brimmer. In the 31st minute, Gillion’s incisive cut-back found Brimmer at the edge of the box. The midfielder chipped the ball up and volleyed it with the outside of his right boot into the net—a goal worthy of any highlight reel.
Auckland extended their lead in the 39th minute through a decisive effort. De Vries’ wicked cross confused the Mariners’ defense. Guillermo May was on hand to tap the ball in with his third goal of the campaign, ensuring Auckland took a comfortable 3-1 lead into halftime.
De Vries was later booked for a tactical foul on Ngor, while Corica adjusted his tactics by bringing on Scott Galloway for Jake Brimmer, signalling a switch to five at the back to preserve the lead.
Fun fact: Central Coast Mariners coach Mark Jackson and Auckland FC assistant Danny Hay were teammates at Leeds United.
Mariners were much better in the second half, seeing a lot more of the ball and able to apply a bit of pressure to the Black Knight defence.
The heat too was starting to have an impact. So it was against the run of play when substitute Rogerson put the seal on this impressive victory, arriving at the far post to dispatch Mata’s cross.
Auckland go into 2025 as league leaders. Corica may not have had the merriest of Christmases after last week’s result, but 4-1 away from home means he’ll have a very happy New Year.
Auckland FC now return home to prepare for their New Year’s Day clash against Melbourne Victory. With the sun and sand of Auckland waiting, you can look forward to another exhilarating performance. Tickets for the match are available here.
Tickets for the match are available here.
