Bosnich stars in Mariners' win
27/07/2008 5:58 PM
Steve Maher at Bluetongue Stadium
Mark Bosnich made a triumphant return and looks certain to sign with the Central Coast Mariners after a man of the match performance in a 3-0 win over Sydney FC in round 2 of the Pre-Season Cup.
Bosnish made the most of his first start in more than six years with a brilliant display between the sticks at Bluetongue Stadium, Gosford.
The former Australian and Manchester United shot-stopper made a dream return, pulling off several outstanding saves, inlcuding a penalty save from Sydney captain Steve Corica in the 70th minute.
Bosnich dived to his left to block Corica's spot kick after Brad Porter fouled Sydney striker Alex Brosque.
That saved followed a brilliant diving effort from a powerful shot from Terry McFlynn in the 29th minute.
He also pulled off two diving saves from open play in the second half.
The effort of Bosnich was the highlight of an impressive Mariners performance.
Porter opened the scoring with a well-taken goal two minutes before half-time.
The Mariners sealed their first win of the Pre-Season Cup with two goals in eight minutes midway through the second half.
Former Sydney striker Sasho Petrovski got the first in the 60th minute before replacement Nik Mrdja netted from the penalty spot soon after.
Sydney tried hard but lacked spark in attack, while the Mariners were very impressive in defence and attack.
Central Coast Mariners 3 (Porter 43, Petrovski 60, Mrdja 68)
Sydney 0