Friday, March 29, 2024

A-League Review: Garcia inspires Mariners, Perth edge 10-man Victory

SoccerNews in General Soccer News 30 Jan 2016

93 Views

Luis Garcia opened his A-League account and assisted Storm Roux on Saturday as Central Coast Mariners recorded a 3-1 win over out-of-form Wellington Phoenix.

Former Liverpool player Garcia signed for rock-bottom Central Coast earlier this month and, after making his debut in a defeat to Western Sydney Wanderers, came off the bench to help the Mariners record their first win of 2016.

Following a goalless first half, Garcia was introduced at the break and opened his account for the club with a cheeky backheel before assisting Roux’s first goal in over two years within eight minutes of the restart.

Mitchell Austin added a late third to secure the Mariners a first away win of the campaign, with Blake Powell’s stoppage-time consolation unable to prevent Phoenix suffering a defeat their manager Ernie Merrick labelled “soul destroying”.

Perth Glory gave their finals hopes a boost with a thrilling 3-2 win over 10-man Melbourne Victory in the final game of the day.

Goals from Andy Keogh and Diego Castro gave the hosts a two-goal cushion inside half an hour at nib Stadium but Besart Berisha’s brace – either side of Fahid Ben Khalfallah’s red card – levelled matters.

Despite levelling with 10 men, Victory fell behind when Keogh was fouled in the area as Castro sealed the points with a Panenka penalty eight minutes from time.

Earlier, Brisbane Roar leapfrogged Melbourne City into second with a convincing 3-1 win at Sydney FC.

City were on the wrong end of a seven-goal thriller involving leaders Western Sydney Wanderers on Friday and Roar took full advantage thanks to Jamie MacLaren’s brace on his return from Australia Under-23 duty.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SoccerNews

Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.

You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.

SHARE OR COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE

WE RECOMMEND

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required *

Join the conversation!

or Register

More More
Top