Mariner hungry for more

He netted his first Hyundai A-League goal last week and now Central Coast Mariners striker Matt Simon wants more.

He netted his first Hyundai A-League goal last week and now Central Coast Mariners striker Matt Simon wants more.

Simon scored with a well-placed header after coming on as a replacement in the round one 1-1 draw with Newcastle on Friday night.

After going through last season without finding the back of the net, Simon is sure to get plenty of confidence after an impressive round one performance.

The Olyroo frontman is now rated a big chance to start in Saturday night’s round two blockbuster against Sydney FC at Bluetongue Stadium.

“Hopefully that’s the first of many goals,” a relieved Simon said.

“It (not scoring) was in the back of my mind but I wasn’t too worried because I was getting into good positions.-“

Simon not only scored his first A-League goal for the Mariners last week but also made his Olympic debut as the Olyroos were eliminated from the Games after a 1-0 defeat against Ivory Coast.

He jetted out from Beijing shortly after the defeat and eight hours after landing at Sydney was lining up for the Mariners.

Mariners coach Lawrie McKinna first saw Simon playing in the Central Coast Premier League with East Gosford and knew he had the ability to play in the national competition.

“He is developing very nicely,” McKinna said.

“We’re confident he’s set for a very good season.-“