John Hutchinson returns to F3 derby as Mariners coach

Former Mariners captain John Hutchinson will coach Central Coast against Newcastle Jets in the F3 derby season opener at Gosford on Saturday.

Hutchinson once played in the fierce rivalry and says he still has coins thrown at him by Jets fans.

He returned to the Mariners as head coach this season after coaching in Japan and the United States.

He now faces Jets coach Mark Milligan, a former teammate and close friend.

The Jets beat the Mariners 4-0 in last season’s final round to secure the Premiers’ Plate, after the Mariners won a dramatic 3-2 derby in the opening round.

Newcastle are seeking a rebound after three straight defeats: a loss in the Australia Cup and two Asian Champions League Elite matches.

The Jets have also lost several players since last season, while the Mariners have new owners and a new coach.

The teams meet in Gosford on Saturday to begin the new campaign.