10 years ago, Jacob Farrell was in the stands as a young fan when Central Coast Mariners last featured in an Isuzu UTE A-League Grand Final and won it. On Saturday night, he was at heart of a drought-ending 6-1 triumph in Sydney.
The Grand Final was delicately poised – Central Coast were leading reigning premiers Melbourne City 2-1 with 27 minutes remaining.
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Step forward Nick Montgomery’s super-sub.
The 20-year-old Mariners product stepped onto the field in the 63rd minute, replacing James McGarry. What transpired in the next 32 seconds completely changed the dynamic of this season’s decider.
With just his second touch of the game, Farrell earned a penalty. Andrew Nabbout’s wild challenge leaving retiring referee Chris Beath with no choice but to point to the spot.
Jason Cummings made the most of the gift.
“Can we call that an inspired substitution?,” Network 10 commentator Simon Hill joked.
Co-commentator Andy Harper: “They cop enough grief coaches, so enjoy the bouquets while they’re coming.”
But, Farrell was not done there.
Having twice nullified the impact of Adelaide United sensation Nestory Irankunda in the Semi Final, the Mariners full-back incredibly won another spot-kick in the 75th minute.
Played through by Marco Tulio, Farrell got in behind City’s defence and attempted to slice the ball back towards the six-yard box but it was handled by another substitute – Callum Talbot.
Harper felt it was “harsh”, though Cummings and Co. did not care as the Socceroo stepped up to convert a hat-trick in his final game for the Mariners.
City were absolutely torn to shreds in a devastating end to the match – Beni Nkololo and Moresche completing a jaw-dropping rout.
Cummings took home the match ball, Sammy Silvera dazzled and Marco Tulio pulled the strings in the highest-scoring Grand Final in A-Leagues history, but Farrell’s introduction was a masterstroke from his boss on the sidelines.
“It’s going to be so good for the coast, seeing the community out there happy,” Farrell told Network 10 post-match.
“Ten years ago I was here watching the Grand Final as a kid, so hopefully there are more kids out there in 10 years time to come play for the Mariners.”
