- Melbourne Victory coach brought down by Central Coast defender
- The incident was not deliberate, many A-League fans loved it
Patrick Kisnorbo is not likely to forget his first game in charge of Melbourne Victory in the A-League any time soon, and it has nothing to do with the 0-0 draw against Central Coast in his team’s season opener on Friday.
In hilarious scenes, Kisnorbo, a tough defender in his playing days, was beaten by Mariners star Lucas Mauragis late in the first half.
The 23-year-old left back was looking to attack from the wing, but the ball went out of bounds after a 50-50 challenge.
In pouring rain at Gosford, Mauragis’ momentum caused him to slide off the pitch and collide with Kisnorbo, who was standing next to the bench.
Aware that it was not deliberate, the Victory boss even helped the young man to his feet.
That didn’t stop football fans from recalling the “incident” with joy on social media.
“The Peak A-League is back,” one fan posted in response to the sight on the competition’s official page on X.
“It is an appropriate response for a manager who steps outside his technical area,” said another.
Mariners defender Lucas Mauragis (right) about to “introduce himself” to Melbourne Victory coach Patrick Kisnorbo.
In pouring rain at Gosford during the A-League season opener on Friday night, Mauragis’ momentum caused him to slide off the pitch and collide with Kisnorbo (pictured).
Aware that the incident (pictured) was not deliberate, the Melbourne Victory coach even helped the youngster to his feet.
Patrick Kisnorbo is likely to remain within the technical area for future A-League matches (pictured, Friday night)
A third chimed in with: “Proof why fans have missed this league.”
In a repeat of last season’s grand final, both teams would have walked away relatively happy with a point.
Kisnorbo’s men missed a penalty when Bruno Fornaroli hit the post from 12 yards on the stroke of half-time, but they went deeper as a unit after captain Roderick Miranda was sent off on the hour mark.
The defender hit Mikael Doka on the back of the head while challenging for a loose ball and the VAR considered the attempted tackle as a case of dangerous play.
Saturday night’s action will see the derby and round match between Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers.
In a boost to the hotly contested competition, the clash at Commbank Stadium is officially sold out, with fans eager to see rival superstars Douglas Costa (Sydney FC) and Juan Mata (Wanderers) in person.
Kick-off is at 7:35 p.m., with live coverage on 10 Bold and Paramount+.
On Saturday afternoon, A-League newcomers Auckland FC take on Brisbane Roar at home.