The good times are starting to return for defender Josh Rose and the Central Coast Mariners.
The good times are starting to return for defender Josh Rose and the Central Coast Mariners.
After an outstanding debut season for the Mariners, Rose is the first to admit he did not hit the ground running during the early rounds of this campaign. Much like the rest of the team it took Rose time to get going.
But, after some hard work on the training paddock with Mariners coach Graham Arnold, Rose is starting to return to his best form.
His performance in last week’s 3-2 win over Sydney FC was his best contribution of the year.
Rose will be hoping to build on that effort when the Mariners host Melbourne Heart at Bluetongue Stadium in Gosford on Saturday night.
His reliable defence, surging runs and pinpoint crossing is a vital part of Arnold’s game plan.
“I was a bit disappointed how I started the year,” Rose said.
“I did some one-on-one work with Arnie (Arnold), which has helped.”
While still not playing at the high standard he was last season, Rose is not far off his best if last week’s effort against Sydney is any indication.
He was heavily involved in defence and attack and seemed to have much more space than in previous matches.
“The past few weeks have been heaps better,” Rose said.
“Things are coming together for the team in general.”
After his efforts last year Rose was invited to take part in a Socceroos training camp earlier this month and would love the opportunity to represent Australia.
“I really enjoyed the camp; it’s nice to be in the mix,” he said.
