Usain Bolt scored twice in his first start for the Central Coast Mariners in an A-League trial match on Friday before being substituted with about 15 minutes remaining.
The retired eight-time Olympic gold medallist sprinter is trying to secure a place with the Mariners for this season, which begins for the Mariners on Oct. 21 against the Brisbane Roar.
“My first start and scoring two goals, it’s a good feeling,” Bolt told Fox Sports television. “I’m happy I could come here and show the world I’m improving. I’m keen to be a Mariner, and get into the team.”
Bolt said he hoped to sit down with the Central Coast coaching staff next week to discuss his future with the team.
Bolt was in the starting lineup against a second-tier National Premier League combined team representing Sydney’s southwest region.
Playing in a central striking role, Bolt struggled for touch early in the match but flourished after halftime.
He showed good strength to hold off a defender and race onto a through-ball before beating the goalkeeper at the near post with a strong left-foot shot in the 55th minute. In celebration, he gave his trademark Lightning Bolt to the crowd.
BOLT HAS HIS BRACE! โก๏ธ
That's two goals tonight for @usainbolt!! What a moment in sport, don't think limits! #CCMFC ๐ฅ @FOXFOOTBALL pic.twitter.com/0NeIH9i49V
— Central Coast Mariners (@CCMariners) October 12, 2018
It’s Bolt’s first serious foray into football since retiring from athletics last year. He has trained with teams in Norway, South Africa and Jamaica, and had a much-publicized training stint with Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund in March.
Culled: CBC Sports
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