Experienced import Luis Garcia has predicted a bright future for Central Coast Mariners’ young brigade despite suffering an 18th loss of the season on Sunday.
The Mariners were overpowered 4-2 away to Adelaide United despite Roy O’Donovan’s brace bookending the defeat.
Speaking after the match to Fox Sports, Garcia reaffirmed his belief in the squad’s potential.
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“They are young players, they are improving. They are getting better every week,” the former Barcelona and Liverpool man said.
“Since I arrived here I’ve seen the boys making less and less mistakes.
“To start like today, playing well and going a goal ahead and after 15 minutes you are 3-1 (behind) … it has happened in many, many games since I arrived here.
“That’s frustrating for them. Hopefully they can start the new season looking forward and try to have a better season next year.”
Tony Walmsley’s side will be playing for pride in their final two matches of the season away to Western Sydney Wanderers and at home to derby rivals Newcastle Jets.
Though he didn’t commit to a second season beyond those two matches, Garcia praised the competitive nature of the Hyundai A-League.
“I think it’s a fantastic league,” he said.
“Every week you don’t know who is going to win. Every team is fighting to be in the top four, top six.
“Hopefully we can see out a good ending and let’s see who wins the trophy.”
