Bolt scores two goals in friendly match

SYDNEY (AP):

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 medalist 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 half-time.

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.

Just over 10 minutes later, he capitalised on a defensive mix-up to pick up a loose ball and tap in from a few metres out. Bolt had six shots overall before being substituted.

He left the game with the Mariners leading 4-0, which was the final score, and spent the remaining time on the sideline signing autographs for hundreds of fans at Campbelltown Stadium in western Sydney.

Bolt wore No. 95 on his jersey, in reference to his 100-metre world record of 9.58 seconds he set in Berlin in at the 2009 world championships.