Is this a sign of things to come in Gosford? Teenage prospect Haine Eames scored an incredible long-range goal for Central Coast Mariners in their pre-season friendly against Isuzu UTE A-League rivals Wellington Phoenix.
The 16-year-old scholarship signing found the back of the net with a stunning late goal as two-time reigning champions the Mariners edged Wellington 1-0 on Sunday.
A graduate of the Central Coast Academy, the talented midfielder came off the bench to settle the pre-season hit out, with the Mariners continuing to prepare for their Round 1 opener against Melbourne Victory on October 18.
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It has been an exciting off-season for Eames, who is in his second year with the Mariners.
The Australia youth international signed a three-year scholarship contract at Central Coast in June.
Eames joined the club’s academy at Under-15 level last year and the Central Coast Sports College student had featured throughout all of the top academy grades for the Mariners in 2024 – from U20s to the senior academy outfit in NPLM NSW.
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Eames has been on the bench for both of Central Coast’s opening AFC Champions League Elite fixtures against Shandong Taishan and Buriram United.
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“We are delighted to be able to give Haine this opportunity with a three-year scholarship deal,” Mariners sporting director Matt Simon said at the time.
“He is a player with huge potential and ability, and this follows one of the key principles of who we are as a club, giving talented young footballers a chance to grow with us.
“We feel that he can develop greatly over the coming years and be of great value to us. Everyone at the club looks forward to helping Haine continue the hard work and watching him develop as a footballer.”
Eames added: “I’m really excited, it’s going to be a great upcoming season and I’m just ready to work and improve under (head coach) Jacko (Mark Jackson).
“There are lots of people who have helped me get this scholarship deal. A big thank you to our Chairman Rich Peil, Matt Simon and Jacko for their support and the faith that they have shown in me to give me this scholarship. Also, a special thank you to my family, who without them I would not be getting this opportunity. I can’t wait to repay them all in Yellow and Navy.”
Get your tickets to Round 1 of the Isuzu UTE A-League season!
