Sydney FC fullback Michael Zullo expects Sydney Derby punishment for the league-leaders if they fail to correct their mistakes from Sunday’s 3-2 win over the Mariners.
The Sky Blues survived a spirited Central Coast fightback on Sunday to leave Gosford with another valuable three points, but only after giving up a 2-0 lead.
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Graham Arnold will be forced to find a new central-defender for next weekend’s clash with the Wanderers after Seb Ryall suffered a potentially serious injury in the first half of Sunday’s thriller, though Zullo says Sydney must address more than just personnel concerns.
“I thought we had good control within the first 15 minutes of the second half and then we got really sloppy and let them score two goals,” Zullo told Fox Sports.
“Their first goal was really sloppy defending from us. We pretty much gifted the free-kick and then the header as well, so the boys aren’t going to be happy with how that happened.
“It may be a little bit of a blessing in disguise because we definitely won’t be able to get away with that next week.”
With the visitors snatching victory courtesy of David Carney’s 77th minute intervention, Zullo conceded he was relieved to depart Central Coast Stadium after a tough afternoon.
“It’s really not an easy place to come, especially with the speed they have on the wings,” the 28-year-old said.
“I knew this was going to a really difficult game for myself and they were constantly trying to get in behind.
“It was a pretty stressful 90 minutes and I’m pretty glad to see the back of it.”
