Mariners and Roar join Glory in standing down players and staff without pay

Central Coast Mariners and Brisbane Roar have, it’s understood, today followed Perth Glory’s example by standing down players and staff in response to the A-League’s coronavirus lockdown.

Scott Neville of Brisbane Roar and Jack Clisby of Central Coast Mariners. Source: Getty Images

It’s believed, in unison with Glory, payments to all Mariners and Brisbane employees will be frozen Indefinitely.

The competition isn’t expected to resume for several months - with April 22’s initial reappraisal date looking certain to be extended.

In what has quickly become a domino effect, Adelaide United and Newcastle Jets are anticipated to soon follow suit, as clubs scramble to take some of the sting out the financial hammer blow which has resulted from the competition’s shutdown with six rounds of the regular season remaining.

The PFA has already flagged legal action against Glory owner Tony Sage for what he claims is an attempt to ensure the club’s long-term survival.

And the Mariners and Brisbane can expect a similar response as the fallout from football’s global hiatus sends financial shock waves through the game.

FFA chief executive James Johnson is also closely monitoring developments and has already indicated he will not hesitate to step in and force some form of settlement between the A-League clubs and the PFA should he deem it necessary.

That point appears to be arriving at warp speed as club chiefs seek to cut mounting costs.

Broadcaster Fox Sports are almost certain to withhold payment to the clubs worth around $900,000 each, which is due at the beginning of April.

With no product, the rights holder can declare the clubs in breach of contract.

Almost half of A-League players are off contract in May, and the stand-downs heap even more uncertainty on their futures. 

Only Melbourne City - backed by the City Football Group - and Sydney FC have, thus far, guaranteed to cover their players’ wage bills next month.

Both Brisbane and the Mariners were approached for comment, as was FFA.