Before anything else, and the machinations of what happens next are picked apart, take time to stop and think about what Sunday's grand final victory means for Central Coast.
It is a massive accomplishment for the A-League's smallest and most under-resourced club. While the underdog narrative has been told ad infinitum, it finally gets told with a happy ending. They've triumphed on the smell of an oily rag.
Heading into the game, it certainly felt like a now-or-never moment, as all knew their window of opportunity was closing. They just had to deliver, and ultimately did did so, with calculated measure of professionalism.
Where to from here? Daniel McBreen and Trent Sainsbury rejoice with Mariners fans at the final whistle. Could it be the last hurrah for the champions? Photo: Brendan Esposito
As the A-League continues to evolve, and clubs figure out winning formulas, those with money will have more opportunities for silverware than those who don't. They'll invest in the best coaches, trainers, facilities and so on.
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In between that transition, however, Arnold sniffed an opportunity to use Central Coast as his own private greenhouse. With total control over the squad, he created a bespoke football operation.
He did it with smarts, not money. Yet while intelligence will always have its place, replicating such deeds in the future is about to become infinitely harder.
Although under contract with Central Coast, Arnold is ready for change. It's nothing against the club, but having conquered Kosciuszko, he's looking for his own Everest, both in terms of a challenge and a pay day. No one can begrudge him either.
It's the same scenario for Mat Ryan, Bernie Ibini and Trent Sainsbury. They're off to Europe, initially for trials but almost certainly for good.
Expect some Asian clubs to lodge big offers for Michael McGlinchey. Would anyone be surprised if a Middle Eastern club offered Daniel McBreen a one-year deal that could set him up financially?
That's why it's worth enjoying this moment a little longer. By the time they restock with new players, and perhaps a new manager, other clubs may be forging ahead.
No way will the competition sit idly by once more as the Mariners plunder Australia's best juniors, nor will a manager like "Arnie" fall into their lap.
It's not doomsday. It's just the challenge they face. Perhaps they could make life for the Wanderers a little tricky by poaching Wanderers assistant coach Ante Milicic from under Tony Popovic's wing. That would be a statement of intent.
As for the Wanderers, the mood around the team hotel in Darling Harbour on Monday morning best summed up their predicament. Down, but not devastated.
"It's a little easier this morning than last night, to be honest. Although we were disappointed after the game, I did tell the players I was immensely proud of them and what they've done, even if the pain was fresh from defeat," Popovic said. "As the week goes on, I'm sure we can reflect further and it will become easier for me. When we get together with the players on Wednesday for our debrief, we'll go through the whole season and show where we've improved from where we started. All the players have improved individually and, as a team, we've improved collectively throughout the year."
Besides, they've got so much to look forward to. This season was special for pushing the boat in uncharted waters. Next season, they get to put the sails up with a clear plan. Imagine what they can manage with a real preparation.
"It's disappointing because grand finals aren't easy to come by and you don't know when they will come again. So you want to cherish the moment when you're there. It hurts, but we'll do everything we can to try and rectify that next year."
No one doubts his word. Having something to chase is a great source of motivation. Just ask the Mariners.
Read more:
http://www.smh.com.au/sport/a-league/coast-is-clear-for-a-stampede-20130422-2ia8n.html#ixzz2RIvXt0TN
