Kosmina's turbulent season not to be punished.

Sydney FC's carousel of coaches has finally come to an end, with the board recently announcing that coach John Kosmina will see out his two year contract. Sticking with Kosmina after a turbulent season will pay dividends in the longer run. Sacking Kosmina, however, would result in a 5th manager in as many years, which ultimately leads to inconsistency on the field, and subsequent turmoil off it.

Although Kosmina hasn't made the best decisions in pressure cooker situations, his position hasn't been helped with an array of obstacles arising, notably a pile of injuries that has seen him call up inexperienced players from the NSWPL, and youth league. Sydney's backline boasts only a handful of experience with Iain Fyfe leading the way, followed by youth stand out, Anthony Golec and Manly United defender, Beau Busch. Shannon Cole and Robbie Middleby shared the wingback positions, but never really had an impact in this role.

The sudden retirement of club captain and central defender Tony Popovic left a gaping hole in the defence which never ended up being adequately filled. His experience and leadership were sorely missed. The inexperience of the backline came to the fore during a 3-3 draw with the CC Mariners, after giving away a 3-0 lead. Losing 3-2 to Melbourne after leading 2-0 further emphasised this.

Alex Brosque's and Mark Bridge's transition from central strikers into wing players had little success. Both were pushed wide at the expense of the maligned John Aloisi, who failed to fire at any point. And with former Socceroo goalkeeper Clint Bolton out of form, Kosmina's hand had been forced.

Any A-League coach is at some stage, going to go through some rough times. But if the manager is sacked as a result of these injuries, suspensions and retirements, it leaves little room for further success. New coaches mean new tactics and a new mentality. It is this, that results in a lack of consistency on the field.

Coaches such as Lawrie McKinna and Ernie Merrick have gone through their rough times, but their respective teams now sit aloft on the A-League ladder, and perform more consistently than most. Adelaides decision to choose Aueralio Vidmar (who was then the assistant coach) as head coach instead of a new, foreign manager, has resulted in United being not only the most consistent performer in the country, but also in Asia, judging by their recent Champions League performance.
The Sydney FC board have opted for long term results and consistency on the field when they quashed rumours of Kosmina's dismissal. A devilish blend of injuries, suspensions and retirements are short term setbacks, that can lead to longer term results with a bit of faith.