Western Sydney Wanderers striker Mark Bridge is set to make his 200th Hyundai A-League appearance this weekend against Adelaide United.
Should he appear against the Reds on Saturday, Bridge will become just the ninth player to have reached 200 matches in the competition’s history.
“Once I finish my career and I look back, the 200th will be something that definitely stands out,” Bridge said.
“It’s definitely incredible but I haven’t really stopped and thought about it yet. It’s one of those things where when I sit down and look back over my career it will be an achievement that I’m going to be very proud of.”
Milestone celebrations for Hyundai A-League stars
At certain stages it appeared as if Bridge wouldn’t reach such a milestone. A self-confessed slump at Sydney FC might have meant a premature end. Instead the attacker is now a rare 10-year veteran with a resume matched by few others.
The 2012/13 All-Star has amassed two premierships, two Grand Final wins – scoring in both – and was Wanderers ’ maiden Player of the Year recipient.
Add in two Socceroos caps and a meeting with Lionel Messi’s Argentina at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the field is wide for choosing a most memorable moment.
“Scoring in the two Grand Finals is amazing – it’s something I’m proud of,” Bridge says.
“But that run we went on when nobody gave us a chance at the Wanderers is something you just can’t describe. Then to go on to win the ACL the following year, they’re definitely top of my list.
“An Australian team winning the Champions League was something I didn’t think I’d ever see but to be part of that special moment is definitely at the top for me.”
