Both the Central Coast Mariners and Canberra United departed polytec Stadium feeling a sense of disappointment on Sunday afternoon after an intense yet ultimately unsatisfying 0-0 stalemate.
Canberra United had the first notable opportunity in the match as Matildas forward Michelle Heyman directed a shot straight at keeper Annalee Grove in the 32nd minute while attempting to find the bottom corner.
Isabel Gomez then attempted a spectacular strike in the 37th minute, collecting the ball inside the Canberra half to try and lob goalkeeper Sally James. However, James managed to retreat back to her line and snatch the ball out of the air, preserving the deadlock.
Just before half-time, Canberra nearly broke the stalemate when Bethany Gordon curled a right-footed free kick around the wall, looking set to find the back of the net. Grove, however, was equal to the task, diving to her right to tip the ball away for a corner.
In the 65th minute, tempers flared as Gomez and Gordon were involved in a heated exchange. Gordon halted a Mariners attack by yanking on Gomez’s shirt, which prompted Gomez to retaliate by kicking out, resulting in both players receiving yellow cards for their actions.
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As the match drew to a close, both teams intensified their efforts in search of a late goal. Canberra substitute Kiara De Domizio struck a fierce shot into the side netting as stoppage time approached.
Substitute Mary Stanic-Floody then took a crack from distance with a powerful low shot that seemed destined for the bottom corner, but Grove was quick to react, palming the strike away and ensuring both teams left with a point.
This result means the Central Coast Mariners missed the opportunity to secure their place in this season’s Final Series, while Canberra United failed to capitalise on their chance to leap over Wellington Phoenix into second place.
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Currently sitting sixth on the table, the Mariners are set to face Sydney FC in the final round of the season, knowing a result equal to that of Melbourne Victory’s will guarantee their spot in the finals, as they currently hold a two-point cushion over Victory.
For Canberra, coach Antoni Jagarinec’s side enters the last round of the season aware that a victory against Brisbane Roar, combined with a draw or loss for Wellington against Adelaide United, will secure them second place on the ladder.
MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
WHAT THEY SAID
Mariners midfielder Greta Kraszula shared her thoughts with Paramount+ following the match at polytec Stadium.
Canberra United veteran Emma Robers spoke to commentator Teo Pellizzeri after the final whistle.
Compiled by SportArena.au.
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