New Central Coast Mariners recruit Mile Jedinak will be looking to maintain his form from the recent Philips Lighting Soccer 7’s when the Mariners accelerate their Hyundai A-League 2007/08 campaign against the Central Coast Thunder next Wednesday, 27 June.

Jedinak was an integral part of the Mariners’ charge in Hong Kong – starting five of the Central Coast’s six matches and contributing one goal against Hong Kong FC in the Mariners’ second Group D match.

Prior to jetting out to Hong Kong, Jedinak had been fundamental to Sydney United’s chances in the NSW Premier League – arguably Australia’s premier state wide competition.

Upon completing his commitments with Sydney United in mid-May, Jedinak had registered four goals in twelve appearances for the Edensor Park based club – who now occupy sixth place in the NSW Premier League.

Now in full training at the club where he made eight competitive appearances in 2006/07, Jedinak is determined to replicate his positive form of recent times in a yellow and navy shirt when the Mariners take on the Thunder next Wednesday.

"It’s taken me a few days to get over Hong Kong, we’ve got into some pretty hard training sessions but I’m feeling really good," said Jedinak.

"I’m sure that the Thunder will be pumped to play us – it’s always the case when you’re playing teams from lower leagues.

"I’m not sure what the standard will be like, but there’ll be plenty of enthusiasm on their part."

Jedinak, and his team mates, will be hoping the Mariners’ successes in Hong Kong recently will inspire similar fortunes for their corresponding Hyundai A-League season, as was the case in 2005.

After appearing in the semi finals of the 2005 edition of the Philips Lighting Soccer 7’s, the Mariners went on to claim a Grand Final berth in the Hyundai A-League 2005/06 season.

Mariners Football Manager Lawrie McKinna, who secured the signature of Jedinak before many of his other off-season signings or re-signings, views the 23-year-old as key to the Mariners’ chances of success throughout season three.

"Mile came in for eight games last year and got better with every game," said Mariners Football Manager Lawrie McKinna.

"He was one of the first boys picked at the end of last season, one reason because he was playing so well, the other reason being that we had no other players!

"He’s big, he’s physical and people don’t give him credit for actually hood good of a player he is, he’s got great feet, he’s dominant in the air and I’m expecting a few goals from midfield for him this year."

The third annual Central Coast Charity Plate takes place at Pluim Park, Lisarow, next Wednesday, 27 June. Kick off is at 7pm.

Mariners Memberships are available for purchase on the night from the Mariners Membership marquee, located at the canteen end of Pluim Park.

Mariners Memberships for the Hyundai A-League 2007/08 season are now available for purchase online at www.ccmariners.com.au, or from Rebel Sports outlets at Erina and Tuggerah.