Challenge Cup provides opportunity for McAndrew
The Wyoming junior has been seldom seen since being installed as the Mariners? final signing ahead of the clubs hugely successful third Hyundai A-League season.
With his one-year contract now up for renewal, McAndrew will be hoping to push his case for a second tilt at Australia?s top tier football competition in the coming weeks and months, starting against the Central Coast Lightning on Tuesday.
“My legs are a bit sore and heavy, but that?s what they?re supposed to be at this time of the year,” said McAndrew.
“I just can?t wait to get out there and get more game time.”
McAndrew was called upon on only one occasion by Mariners Football Manager Lawrie McKinna throughout the course of the 19-year-olds debut season in the Hyundai A-League ? that contribution limited to barely a minute at the end of the Mariners? Round 9 win away to the Wellington Phoenix.
McAndrew?s other appearances in a Mariners shirt came in trial matches prior to the commencement of the 2007/08 season.
McAndrew made appearances off the bench against the Central Coast Lightning and the national team of Malaysia, and also made several appearances at the Philips Lighting Soccer 7?s tournament in Hong Kong, including a start against Aston Villa at the group stages in a match won 2-0 by the Mariners.
“I hope to play a more significant role in season four, hopefully I can get a little bit fitter than what I was last year and maybe push for more bench spots ? that?s the aim,” said McAndrew.
“Last year was tough, my body pulled up very sore a lot of the season, but towards the end of it I became more comfortable with the players, how they played, got used to their styles and this year I?m hoping to improve a little bit more.”
The Mariners will open their Hyundai A-League 2008/09 pre-season campaign by taking on the Central Coast Lightning at Pluim Park next Tuesday, 20 May. Kick off is at 7.30pm.
Tickets are $5 for adults, $2 for concessions, while children under the age of 16 can be admitted free. Limited car parking is available within the Pluim Park precinct for $5.
