In the story of every emerging A-League club there's a game - or moment - which builds the foundation for how the club moves forward, develops its culture and shapes its identity.
In the eyes of FOX Sports analyst Mark Bosnich, that moment came for Macarthur FC in an astounding 2-0 Elimination Final win over Central Coast Mariners on Saturday night.
Central Coast: Oliver Bozanic and Matt Simon
The local duo have been crucial to the Mariners rise up the table in 2021. Skipper Bozanic s drive from midfield sets the tone while Simon has enjoyed an incredible resurgence as the target man up top. Macarthur: Markel Susaeta and Adam Federici
Matt Derbyshire may be Macarthur s leading scorer but it s Susaeta s creativity and guile that s crucial to much of their attack. Goalkeeper Federici has been immense between the sticks this season and will be keen to perform on the big stage. KEY TO THE GAME
Can Macarthur make the most of their weight of possession? The Bulls will need to get the creative Susaeta involved and turn that into goals. Otherwise they ll be susceptible on the counter against the Mariners - who ve had their number this season.
Share on Twitter
Tomer Hemed starred for the Phoenix, setting up the first goal just before halftime and scoring one of his own moments after the interval.
The win extends the New Zealanders unbeaten run to 11 matches but the Phoenix will finish the season in seventh, just one point shy of finals football.
Macarthur, who started the match in fifth, slipped to sixth behind Adelaide United on goal difference and will now face either Brisbane Roar or Central Coast Mariners in their debut semi-final next weekend.
The Bulls disappointing evening became even worse 13 minutes after halftime with midfielder Loic Puyo sent off.