Joshua Rose will be hoping for more of the same when he lines up for the Central Coast Mariners against Melbourne Victory in Melbourne on Thursday night.
The left-sided full-back is better known for his defensive attributes, but was one of Mariners coach Graham Arnold’s main attacking weapons in Saturday’s 3-0 whitewash against Wellington in New Zealand.
The veteran bagged a goal in each half in his best performance of the season.
Arnold could not be happier with the progress of Rose, who forms a crucial part of what is one of the Hyundai A-League’s best defensive units.
“That is exactly what I want from him,” Arnold said of Rose’s outstanding performance against Wellington.
“I’m very happy with his defence, he’s very solid and safe at the back.”
“A big reason we signed him was to be an attacking left full-back.”
“We’ve been asking him to have a go at defences and that’s what he did on Saturday.”
“We need more of the same on Thursday night and for the rest of the season.”
Saturday also saw yet another polished performance from midfielder Michael McGlinchey, who has been starring at right midfield.
The Kiwi international played more in the centre of midfield for the club last season, but has found a home on the right and is one of the form players of the competition.
“Being on the right gives him freedom and space, he’s been great for us,” Arnold said.
