How Zadkovich’s ‘vision’ lured Hatch from Mariners to Glory

Perth Glory have secured the services of former Central Coast Mariners live-wire Matt Hatch on a two-year deal.

The 21-year-old made 20 appearances over two seasons with the Mariners – but made just two starts, amassing 434 minutes of game time and scoring five goals.

Hatch showed effectiveness in coming off the bench for the Mariners, but like former City forward Stefan Colakovski joins Perth as a young player with unbound potential and the intention of increasing his first team minutes.

In a statement released by the club, Hatch admitted a move had been on his mind for some time, with working under Glory head coach Ruben Zadkovich a major appeal in his decision join the Western Australian club.

“I’ve been thinking about it for a while now,” Hatch said, “and decided that a change of scenery could really help me grow as a footballer and as a person and getting out of my comfort zone on the Central Coast would really push me.

“I spoke to Ruben Zadkovich and his vision for not only me, but for the club, really persuaded me on wanting to move to the west. I think he could really help me improve my football.

“Last year was a tough one for Perth with everything they went through on and off the field, but that’s in the past now and I hope in the next few years I can earn my spot and help the club get back to winning ways and back to where they belong.

“I’ve never been to Perth, but from what I’ve heard, it’s one of the best places in Australia, so I’m excited to move over there and start working hard towards next season.

“The Mariners have helped me tremendously over the years, so I hope I can take everything I have learned and use it to benefit myself and the team.”

Hatch’s signing comes as the club locks down one of its brightest young academy graduates, with 22-year-old Luke Bodnar signing a three-year contract extension on Wednesday morning.

Bodnar, who can play in central defence and in midfield, won the club’s U-23 Player of the Year award after a successful 2020-21 campaign, but played just four times last season due to a foot fracture.

But with a fresh contract inked and focus switching to the 2022-23 Isuzu UTE A-League campaign, Bodnar has expressed his delight at signing on for another three years with his boyhood club.

“It’s always a pleasure to play for your hometown club,” he said, “and when you’re given another opportunity with a whole new group of players and staff, you jump at it.

“After unfortunately missing a lot of last season due to injury, I can’t wait to get back out there and do my bit to drive the club forward next season.”

Former Perth striker and now club head of recruitment Andy Keogh says Bodnar’s signature was an “integral” move for the club as it attempts to move on from a catastrophic campaign.

“Securing Luke was integral to our vision going forward,” Keogh said.

“He is highly regarded here at Perth Glory by all the staff and is a clear asset to the club.

“We have high hopes for him as he continues to progress in his career.”

Perth wrapped up their transfer activity on Wednesday afternoon by announcing goalkeeper Cameron Cook and defender Joseph Forde had signed two-year contract extensions.

Cook, 20, made his senior Glory debut last season, ending the campaign with six senior starts to his name – the same amount of appearances 18-year-old Forde accumulated throughout the 2021-22 season.

“I’m excited to continue my journey with Glory,” said Cook, “and am looking forward to seeing what the future holds.

“It was amazing to get my A-League debut last season and I’m hoping for more opportunities in the season ahead.”

“I’m delighted and honoured in the most humble way to have signed a two-year contract with the club,” added Forde.

“It has always been a goal of mine and I’m very excited for the upcoming season and what’s to come in the future.”