The win was enough to give the Mariners a share of the lead at the top of the ladder - ahead of the other fixtures in the round.

Daniel McBreen was on target for the second week in a row as Arnold's men saw off the competition new boys - the visitors losing former Mariner Michael Beauchamp to a second half red card.

"I thought we were very clinical in the first half and I wish Beauchamp hadn't been sent off," Arnold said after the match.
 
"Once again ruthlessness let us down in front of goal tonight.
 
"We're seven points from nine at home so we are building nicely.
 
"I think its healthy that we have competition for spots and it creates a nice balance in the club."
 
One player who gained particular praise from his coach tonight was young 'keeper Mathew Ryan.
 
"I thought he was outstanding, eighteen years of age and he wants that number one shirt. He really stood up," Arnold said.
 
Goalscorer Daniel McBreen was relieved to net his second goal in as many matches for his new club.
 
"Everytime I score a goal my missus is at home, so I guess she's banned from coming now," McBreen said with his tongue very firmly in cheek.  

Heart finished the match a man down after Socceroo defender Michael Beauchamp was sent off for an alleged head butt on Mariner Oliver Bozanic in the 52nd minute.

Even Arnold thought the decision was harsh.

Heart coach John van 't Schip said "there was hardly a touch" in the incident and said Beauchamp was shown a red card for his reaction rather than a head butt.

"We were progressing quite well," van 't Schip said.

"Last week we had a good win and today we couldn't continue. We'll have to have a good talk this week."

The Heart coach said his side tried hard but lacked the control of last week's breakthrough win.

He said goalkeeper Clint Bolton was his side's best. Bolton pulled off what could turn out to be the save of the season in the 15th minute when he brilliantly saved a close range volley from McBreen.