Garang Kuol was given a standing ovation following his final appearance for Central Coast Mariners ahead of his January transfer to Newcastle United. The A-League wonderkid was handed a second straight start and helped his side beat Melbourne Victory on New Year's Eve.
Newcastle confirmed a move for Kuol in September, with the teenage forward expected to head out on loan. The 18-year-old has already made great strides in the intervening months, making his senior debut for Australia before featuring twice for the Socceroos at the World Cup.
Kuol only made his first start of the season for the Mariners on December 18, registering an assist in the 2-1 comeback victory over Sydney FC. The future Magpie kept his place for the visit of Melbourne Victory, and the latest 2-1 win has temporarily lifted the A-League outfit to second in the table.
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A crowd of 10,372 in Gosford rose to their feet to applaud Kuol as he was substituted in the 78th minute. The teenager later joined his team-mates in the crowd and posed for pictures with fans and Mariners CEO Shaun Mielekamp.
Speaking ahead of the 2-1 success, Kuol could not hide his excitement as he prepared for his switch to Tyneside. He told the club's website: "I'm buzzing. I can't wait to get down there, and hit the ground running."
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