AT THE beginning of the season, Ange Postocoglou was asked to give his opinion about the Mariners’ chances. His response was unequivocal: “Their coach is under pressure - they will fail.”
At 73 minutes into the match at Suncorp last Saturday with the Mariners up 3-0, the camera lingered on Ange looking decidedly worried in the stands. A thought bubble might have read "geez, what have I let myself in for ?" or "maybe Lawrie could give me some tips."
Troubled times off the pitch surely affect even the most focused players, but it would be selling the Mariners short to say they did not thoroughly deserve this much needed win over Roar, regardless of their opposition's "week from hell". How beautiful was it to see Pedj score his first A-League goal in our best ever away win ?
The defence put on another quality performance led by Wilko, a performance surely not missed by the watchful eye of Uncle Pim as he enjoyed a pre-game hotdog. Sure, Wilko might be regarded as a World Cup wild card but the way he's playing this season is nevertheless a great advertisement for his numerous assets.
His sales pitch might read : "Wilko combines the fitness, determination and energy of youth with a wealth of experience and leadership ability. Also provides team entertainment on request - Buy Now !"
Danny Vukovic, on the other hand, needs no slogans. His peak performances this season, capped off by Saturday's thrilling "world class" save amounts to a giant billboard announcing "Total Class". Matt Simon has also shown himself to be back with a vengeance, thankfully now injury free and hassling defenders again in his uniquely exciting way. I have a theory that Simon is so frequently caught offside because some part of his body is always itching to get round the defence.
While it would be fantastic to see any Mariners player get a World Cup call-up, the rumour that Pim proposes to loan any A-League Socceroos to overseas clubs during the January transfer window is a cause for concern. Should Pim come knocking, Lawrie would no doubt think of a solution.
If the Mariners coach has been "under pressure" this season, it surely isn't evident from the team's performances. Sure, there have been some inconsistent results but overall the current squad shows the depth, quality and character to continue to "defy the critics" this season.
What annoys the Mariners critics the most, it seems, is the way that so-called "ordinary" players continue to prove they're a force to be reckoned with. Anyone who can get off a 20-hour international flight at 2am, then play 80 minutes of football the same day and score with his eyes shut is something special. Good one, Hutcho. (What a pity Hutch and Manny's moment of glory wasn't televised).
Then there is the latest recruit, Matt Crowell, who slotted invisibly into the line-up on Saturday as if he'd been there before. He made an excellent contribution to play, showing great passing ability and the sort of tenacious physicality that wrongly earned him a yellow card. Welcome to the Mariners, Matt !
He also reportedly entertained the passengers on the team flight to Brisvegas with his rendition of "What's New Pussycat". Book now for The Mariners Medal Dinner !
But while a big singing Welshman and a 3-0 win on the road both really excite me, the best thing about this season is the seamless way all the new recruits have fitted in and complemented the squad. From their very first appearances, Doig, McGlinchey, Travis and now Crowell have strengthened defence and added flair to the midfield, lifting team performance and confidence immeasurably.
When their recruitment was announced the critics were predictably underwhelmed. What so few critics give Lawrie credit for is the simple ability to find quality players, build a team and bring out the best in his squad. No doubt the whole coaching staff should be given due credit as well.
This approach doesn't always guarantee results, but it does guarantee a sense of team commitment and stability which forms the basis for ongoing achievement. It also encourages the sort of fan dedication and club identity no marketing campaign can buy.
So bring on the F3 Derby ! I'm packing my bags for Canberra as well. Let's see if Matty can beat his 14 second wonder goal in the weeks ahead.
