This week on Dub Zone, the talent of Mariners’ Isabel Gomez and head coach Emily Husband was celebrated following their remarkable performance in the Grand Final against Melbourne Victory last Sunday.
By Sunday evening, Isabel Gomez and Emily Husband etched their names into the history of Central Coast football.
MATCH REPORT: Mariners clinch first Ninja A-League Championship in nail-biting penalty shootout
Gomez, enjoying a stellar week with her selection for the Matildas ahead of a likely international debut, contributed significantly by scoring in both regular play and the penalty shootout that led to a 1-1 (5-4) victory for the Mariners against Melbourne Victory. This was after her pivotal goal in the Semi-Final that eliminated Melbourne City and secured the Mariners a spot in the Grand Final.
‘SPEECHLESS’: unforgettable press conference moment perfectly captures the Mariners’ joy
Head coach Husband commanded the sidelines as she celebrated becoming the very first coach to lead the Mariners to a Ninja A-League Championship, and the first female coach to achieve this honour since 2017.
The 2024-25 Ninja A-League season has added another chapter to Mariners folklore, with Husband and Gomez playing vital roles in this extraordinary journey.
EXCLUSIVE: Emily Husband’s historic feat in the Ninja A-League after Mariners’ victory
FAIRYTALE: Mariners star’s dream week reaches new pinnacles
‘SPEECHLESS’: indeed, a memorable press conference moment for the Mariners
This week on Dub Zone, A-Leagues commentator Teo Pellizzeri and Sydney FC legend Teresa Polias joined host Amy Duggan to dissect the excitement of Sunday’s Grand Final at AAMI Park. They also explored the significance of Central Coast’s achievements under Husband’s leadership in her second season, following the club’s return to competition after a 15-year absence.
“This victory highlights the diverse aspects of coaching excellence,” Pellizzeri noted.
“In the Grand Final, eight of last season’s starters for the Mariners from the Elimination Finals were absent from the matchday squad. They didn’t just reset from the break; they had to undergo another overhaul this off-season.”
“Consider the talent that departed: Jazmin Wardlow was arguably their top defender last season, and Casey Dumont was their primary goalkeeper. And let’s not overlook Kyah Simon, Wurigumula, Rola Badawiya, and Faye Bryson. Rebuilding the squad across multiple facets consecutively is no small feat, yet the real triumph lay in the remarkable in-game coaching, making real-time adjustments.”
“Repositioning Taylor Ray as a centre-back and having players adapt to new roles showcases her adaptability as a coach.”
“Emily Husband’s match management is crucial to their ability to repeatedly defy the odds as underdogs throughout this Final Series. It’s a successful combination of solid recruitment and exceptional management.”
Husband’s skill in player management has stood out during her two-season tenure with the Mariners, with players frequently praising her ability to connect personally, maximising each individual’s potential.
One player, in particular, has shown remarkable progression during Husband’s era: Grand Final standout Gomez.
The 22-year-old earned her first Matildas selection under Husband in November but faced a setback with a knee injury that kept her out for 12 weeks. However, she made her return to the Mariners in February, finishing the season with seven goals, including strikes in both the Semi-Final’s second leg against the unbeaten Premiers, Melbourne City, and the opening goal of the Grand Final.
With a career that has taken her through Western Sydney Wanderers, Wellington Phoenix, and now the Mariners, Gomez has flourished under four different female coaches—an exceptional circumstance within a league predominantly led by male coaches.
“Without Gomez, their season was in freefall, and her timely return saved them,” Pellizzeri commented.
“The chemistry between Gomez and Husband has developed seamlessly.”
“Izzy Gomez’s path has been unique; she played for Wellington Phoenix after limited opportunities with Western Sydney Wanderers, then moved to New Zealand and subsequently returned to Australia.”
“Husband’s triumph is also a significant victory for women coaches generally. Throughout her journey, Gomez has been coached by strong female leaders.”
“Experiencing four consecutive seasons under female coaching is rare in this league,” Pellizzeri noted.
“Absolutely,” Polias added. “This can inspire young women coaches in the industry to believe in their own potential and strive for success.”
“Husband is exceptionally personable, and in today’s world, effective people management is vital. Players feel comfortable approaching her regarding anything.”
Pellizzeri concluded: “Em Husband is a true football enthusiast; her players liken her approach to chess on grass.”
“However, tactical theory alone isn’t enough. It takes player engagement and trust in communication to foster a solid team dynamic. The positive player feedback reflects her strong interpersonal skills and ability to adapt her communication style to suit each individual, setting her apart from many coaches in both women’s and men’s football.”
‘NEVER SEEN HER MISS ONE’: Heartfelt response from Victory coach following the painful Grand Final experience
EXCLUSIVE: Emily Husband’s Ninja A-League achievement following Mariners’ victory
FAIRYTALE: Mariners star’s incredible week takes off
‘SPEECHLESS’: Memorable moments from the press conference echo the joy for the Mariners
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
