It was a debut to remember for Shepparton soccer export Garang Kuol, with the youngster scoring in his A-League men’s debut on Tuesday night.
Coming off the bench for the Mariners against the Wellington Phoenix, Kuol found the back of the net in the 68th minute, with a fantastic touch past the keeper receiving plaudits from across the Australian soccer community.
Speaking to Channel 10 post-game, Kuol thanked Mariners head coach Nick Montgomery and assistant coach Sergio Raimundo for the opportunity to play.
“It’s a very proud moment to make my A-League debut, this is just the beginning,” Kuol said.
Kuol’s goal came after he found himself on the end of a long ball, with the youngster explaining how it transpired.
“Just to get good connection behind the ball because I knew the keeper was coming out so just to get connection on the ball towards the goal,” Kuol said.
“You saw us last week versing second place Western United, I reckon we dominated, so it shows the confidence we have and hopefully we just keep going.”
Kuol came through the system at Shepparton side Goulburn Valley Suns and coach Craig Carley was full of praise for the young star.
“I’m just delighted for him really, I think it’s fantastic for Garang and for me personally I’m certainly not surprised,” Carley said.
“I’ve been singing his praises for a number of years now and I think his goal would have come a lot quicker if it wasn’t for an injury that has kept him out for the past couple of months.”
Carley said he believed Kuol would go on to bigger and better things.
“I’m just wrapped that he’s got his opportunity to play senior football at Central Coast Mariners and continue his development that we saw here,” Carley said.
“We’re all very proud of him at the GV Suns.”