Mariners need to intimidate Roar: Okon

Oct 21, 2016 - 3:29 AM Coach Paul Okon has called on Central Coast's players and fans to transform Gosford into the A-League fortress it once was as they seek redemption against battered Brisbane.

Saturday marks the Mariners' first home game of the season and the only one to be played in Gosford during the first seven rounds.

The Roar will arrive eager to atone for last weekend's shock 4-0 loss to Newcastle, and Okon challenged the Central Coast faithful to create an unnerving atmosphere for John Aloisi's men.

"I hope to see a wall of yellow and a little bit of noise," Okon said.

"We want this place to be as intimidating as possible.

"It's important when you play at home that opposition teams realise it's a difficult place to come and get points."

To the players, Okon's message is plain and simple: banish the defensive errors that led to their own 4-0 dismantling at the hands of Sydney FC.

That will be a test should the Roar's speed and quality of attack shine this week.

"If you give them space they can pass through you," he said.

"Brett Holman finds pockets of space and can score goals from inside the box, outside the box.

"They have threats everywhere and it's up to us to make sure we don't lose the ball in dangerous areas and don't come up with silly mistakes."

The Mariners' attacking options will be bolstered by the return of winger Fabio Ferreira, who won't yet be fit enough to run out 90 minutes but could start before handing the baton to pacy youngster Trent Buhagiar.

"If you're a left full-back you wouldn't want Trent coming on and running at you with that sort of speed," Okon said.

Meanwhile, the Mariners confirmed the expected signing of former Melbourne Victory defender Scott Galloway.

The 21-year-old, Okon's first signing, joins on a one-deal in a bid to strengthen a defence that's already conceded seven goals in the opening two rounds.

Galloway completed his first training session with the team on Friday and is eligible for selection against the Roar.

Source: AAP