The Central Coast Mariners can today advise that Harry Ascroft has been granted a release to complete a transfer to Maltese Premier League outfit, Balzan F.C.
After being granted permission to trial in Malta, Ascroft has earned a contract with the club that finished second in the 2016-17 top tier of Maltese football.
The 22-year-old defender signed with the Central Coast Mariners in July 2015 from Dutch outfit, VVV-Venlo and made 34 Hyundai A-League appearances, scoring four goals as a defender.
Ascroft’s trial and transfer is a result of a newly established relationship between the Central Coast Mariners and Balzan F.C. This relationship is aimed to increase player pathway opportunities into Europe for young Australian players.
Upon signing his contract with Marko Micovic’s Balzan F.C, Harry thanked everyone at the Mariners for making him feel at home on the Central Coast.
“I would like to thank Central Coast Mariners for giving me the fantastic opportunity to play in the Hyundai A-League,” Ascroft said. “I would like to wish the boys all the very best for the future and the rest of the season.
“Finally, I would like to say a huge thanks to the fans who have supported me on this journey – you welcomed me with open arms from day one and that’s something I will never forget.
“The opportunity to return to Europe and continue my dream is certainly an exciting one and a new experience for me,” Ascroft said.
Central Coast Mariners Head of Football, Nick Montgomery further explained the relationship established between the Mariners & Balzan F.C.
“To establish a relationship with a club in Europe that will give young Australians a chance to play regularly is great for the Mariners,” Montgomery said.
“We will continue to work with Balzan and see this as a great pathway for Australians to be exposed to football in Europe.
“This gives young Australians like Harry an opportunity to play football abroad and develop their game, whilst earning regular game time,” Montgomery added.
The Central Coast Mariners wish Harry Ascroft all the best on his future endeavours with his new club.
