UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the Mariners have defeated the Jets in a thrilling F3 Derby match, clinching victory in the dying moments of the game. This electrifying encounter at Polytec Stadium saw a dramatic finish that has left fans buzzing.
The Jets, buoyed by their recent Australia Cup triumph, arrived with thousands of supporters, confident of securing a win. Their optimism soared early when Alex Badolato blasted home a powerful goal in the 14th minute, putting the Jets ahead.
However, the Mariners were not ready to bow out. In an explosive two-minute flurry midway through the second half, Alfie McCalmont equalized with a penalty before Miguel Di Pizio capitalized on a defensive blunder, turning the match around with a 2–1 lead for the Coast.
Just when it seemed the Mariners would secure the win, Jets substitute Lachie Rose netted an equalizer in the 79th minute. With the score tied at 2–2, it appeared the match would end in a draw.
But chaos ensued in stoppage time. The Mariners’ new goalkeeper, Andrew Redmanye, became an instant hero, saving a crucial penalty from Newcastle’s Eli Adams in the 97th minute. Just half a minute later, Nicholas Duarte scored the winner after a calamitous mistake by the Jets’ goalkeeper, sending the Mariners fans into a frenzy.
This remarkable finish marked 98th minute, when Duarte bundled home his first A-League goal, igniting wild celebrations and disbelief across the stadium.
Football commentator Luke Byrne remarked, “It was an unbelievable end to a pulsating F3 Derby. This was one of the best finishes to the derby in 21 seasons.”
This victory signals that the Mariners, under new interim manager Warren Moon, are a force to be reckoned with in the A-League, showcasing a resilience that no team can underestimate.
As fans continue to celebrate this unforgettable match, all eyes will be on upcoming fixtures to see if the Mariners can maintain their momentum and build on this electrifying start to the season. Football enthusiasts everywhere are eager to see what’s next for these dynamic teams.
