Match Summary
Western United defeated Central Coast Mariners 3:1. The match was played in A-League 2024. Goals were scored by N. Botić 52′, T. Imai 76′ (o.g.), L. Vickery 81′, M. Ruhs 90′. 4 yellow cards were shown. Central Coast Mariners had 51% possession while Western United held 49%. Central Coast Mariners had 17 shots (3 on target) compared to 16 (10 on target) for Western United. Central Coast Mariners made 5 substitutions, Western United made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Central Coast Mariners and Western United — 4 goals and 4 cards recorded during the match.
assist: R. Danzaki
Own Goal
assist: M. Ruhs
Match Statistics
Central Coast Mariners had 51% possession against Western United's 49%. Central Coast Mariners registered 17 shots (3 on target) while Western United managed 16 (10 on target). Corner kicks: 10–5. Fouls committed: 7–8.
Lineups
Central Coast Mariners lined up in a 4-4-2 formation under M. Jackson, while Western United deployed a 4-4-2 under J. Aloisi.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Central Coast Mariners is 6.70, compared to 6.92 for Western United. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Central Coast Mariners's highest-rated starter is M. Di Pizio (6.87), while Western United's best-rated player is R. Bozinovski (7.58).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Central Coast Mariners have contributed 5 goals and 7 assists this season, led by M. Di Pizio (3G). Western United's starters account for 0 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by —. Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Central Coast Mariners deploy 4 defenders rated 6.72 on average, against Western United's 4-man backline averaging 6.87. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Central Coast Mariners field 4 midfielders averaging 6.60, versus Western United's 4 rated 6.89. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Central Coast Mariners start 2 forward(s) averaging 6.87, compared to 2 for Western United averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages —% for Central Coast Mariners and 85% for Western United. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Central Coast Mariners's starters have collected 7 yellow cards this season, compared to 1 for Western United. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Central Coast Mariners's starting XI is 24.3 (youngest: M. Di Pizio (19), oldest: B. Kaltak (32)), while Western United average 24.1 (youngest: D. Leonard (18), oldest: T. Imai (35)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Central Coast Mariners's starters average 11 league appearances each, versus 1 for Western United. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Central Coast Mariners have recorded 3 wins, 3 draws and 0 defeats. Western United show 0 wins, 0 draws and 1 losses from their last 1 outings.
Central Coast Mariners
Western United
API data: 15 Mar 2026