Mark Byrnes
Mark Byrnes | |
|---|---|
| Born | February 8, 1982 Australia |
| Occupation | Footballer |
| Years active | 1999–2010s |
| Known for | Australian footballer, captain of Australia U-17 at 1999 FIFA U-17 World Championship |
Mark John Byrnes (born 8 February 1982) is an Australian footballer currently competing for APIA Leichhardt Tigers in the New South Wales Premier League.
Club career
Byrnes had a short stint with SV Salzburg in Austria before achieving back-to-back National Soccer League titles while playing for Perth Glory.
When the NSL concluded after the 2003/2004 season, he moved to Finland, joining FC Hämeenlinna in July 2004. He later returned to Australia to become part of Melbourne Victory's squad for the A-League 2005–06 season. However, his opportunities on the pitch were limited due to competition from emerging defenders such as Adrian Leijer and Daniel Piorkowski. Byrnes contributed to Melbourne Victory's A-League championship triumph in 2006–2007 but was released from the club on 1 March 2007.
In 2007, he signed a short-term contract with Victorian Premier League team Richmond Eagles, appearing in three matches. The following year, Byrnes trialed with English lower-division sides Port Vale and Luton Town, showcasing his abilities during pre-season; however, a minor injury prevented him from securing a contract.
On 23 September 2009, he joined Gold Coast United as an injury replacement for Daniel Piorkowski on a four-week deal.
International career
Byrnes captained the Australian Under-17 national team that finished as runners-up at the 1999 FIFA U-17 World Championship.
Honours
Perth Glory
- NSL Championship: 2002–03, 2003–04
Australia U-20
- OFC U-19 Men's Championship: 2001
Australia U-17
- FIFA U-17 World Championship: 1999 (Runners-up)