Mariners’ shot at a fairytale treble alive after Sydney FC crumbles in semi final

Newly crowned premiers and AFC Cup Champions, the Central Coast Mariners have one foot inside the A-League Men grand final.

Sydney FC were the only team to beat the Mariners since round four and were considered their bogey team, touted as the favourites to take down the reigning champions ahead of the decider.

Two red cards for Sydney FC to Jack Rodwell and Corey Hollman, the latter being a second yellow, put the home team down to nine for the remaining few minutes.

Although it was only the first of two legs and the margin wasn’t a big one, the Mariners looked to be clearly the stronger team.

Mariners coach Mark Jackson said despite the win, he’s not looking too far ahead.

“We’re not there, we’re far from…