The Mariners suffered heartbreak in the grand final a year ago when Brisbane Roar came from behind in the dying moments of the game to ultimately claim the Championship.

But Arnold was overjoyed that his side managed to overcome that crushing defeat - and the loss of key players during the season - to claim their second Premiership in A-League history.

“I am so delighted, and proud of the players and what they’ve achieved,” he said.

“I think a lot of people would have discarded us as any chance to win the Premiership this season after last year, but the character to bounce back has made this success all the more worthwhile.

“The team has been through a lot – losing Matty Simon and Rostyn Griffiths has not made it easy. But the culture and character within the group is so strong.

“I’m also so thankful to my staff. Phil Moss, John Crawley, Andrew Clark and the entire medical and support staff. That we’ve still got 22 fit players with Champions League as well as A-League is amazing.

“I want the boys to enjoy tonight and tomorrow because they thoroughly deserve some down time and to celebrate a brilliant performance.

“But Wednesday we start again. The Finals Series is a new competition. Brisbane home and away is a great test, a great rivalry and we’re looking forward to two bumper games to try and make the Grand Final again.

“I’m so proud.”

However the Mariners coach was fuming over the lack of a presentation of the Premiers Plate at the end of today's game in Wellington which saw the Mariners clinch the title with a 2-1 win.

"I'll probably get called a whinger, but that's disappointing," said Arnold. "I don't care where you play (the match).

"The boys have worked their arses off for 27 weeks, plus pre-season, and it's not here. It would have been nice if it was here today. I don't know when they are going to give it to us now."

"I'd say probably the second semi-final at Bluetongue but we've got a big game that day."