Central Coast Mariners and unbeaten premiers Melbourne City played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the opening leg of their 2024-25 Ninja A-League Semi-Final.
Brooke Nunn was at the double while Leticia McKenna scored an unforgettable goal as the Mariners held high-flying City to a draw in Saturday’s first leg at Industree Group Stadium.
Nunn gave Central Coast a 20th-minute lead before two quick-fire goals put City ahead at half-time – McKenna’s incredible free-kick restored parity and Bryleeh Henry put the visitors ahead in the 35th minute.
CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS TO THE NINJA A-LEAGUE FINALS SERIES
In-form English star Nunn equalised nine minutes into the second half to not only ensure the third draw of the season between the two sides, but also leave the tie in the balance heading into the return leg in Melbourne on May 10 for a spot in the Grand Final.
Two-time reigning premiers City – back in action after earning a week off – were without star Lourdes Bosch, who did not travel due to soreness and will be reassessed ahead of the second leg while Golden Boot winner Holly McNamara was among the substitutes following a niggle in training.
The Mariners, who conquered Canberra United in the Elimination Finals, struck first in picturesque conditions in front of their Gosford fans.
Annalise Rasmussen’s brilliant work started the move after the Central Coast youngster nutmegged City captain Rebekah Stott on the halfway line before driving into the box as Jade Pennock forced a wonderful save from Malena Mieres. However, Nunn was on hand to tuck away the rebound in the 20th minute.
CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS TO THE NINJA A-LEAGUE FINALS SERIES
It was the ninth time this season City had fallen behind. On those eight previous occasions, City had rallied to avoid defeat in 2024-25.
They demonstrated their comeback abilities nine minutes later thanks to the magic of McKenna.
McKenna produced a moment of individual brilliance as she unleashed a venomous free-kick into the roof of the net.
City then found themselves ahead 10 minutes prior to half-time after Henry sprung the offside trap, rounded the goalkeeper and scored routinely.
CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS TO THE NINJA A-LEAGUE FINALS SERIES
The Mariners, though, were not daunted by the reigning premiers and they got back on level terms via the boot of Nunn once more in the 54th minute.
Pennock played a ball across to Nunn and her English counterpart rounded Mieres before steadying herself and curling the ball into the net.
CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS TO THE NINJA A-LEAGUE FINALS SERIES
