Central Coast Mariners hit back to hold Wellington Phoenix

Updated: May 17, 2023, 01:09 am
Central Coast Mariners came from behind to secure a draw against Wellington Phoenix.
Tony Feder/Getty Images

Irish forward Roy O'Donovan scored in the 76th minute for his third goal in as many home matches, giving Central Coast Mariners a 1-1 draw with Wellington Phoenix in the A-League on Sunday.

Michael McGlinchey had given the New Zealand side the lead in the eighth minute, firing past Paul Izzo after a crossfield pass from Roy Krishna.

However, O'Donovan -- who had seen a goal ruled out for offside in the first half -- secured his side a share of the spoils when he scored from a corner kick.

The draw helped retain the status quo -- for the most part -- after five rounds.

First-place Sydney FC remained one point ahead of Brisbane Roar after a scoreless draw on Friday. Newcastle, who lost 2-1 to Western Sydney Wanderers on Saturday, were in third place on nine points, followed by four teams on seven points each -- Melbourne Victory, Melbourne City, the Wanderers and Wellington.

The Victory beat Perth Glory 2-0 in the FFA Cup final on Saturday.