Goals from Brendon Santalab and Alvaro Cejudo awarded the Wanderers their second win of the season and coach Josep Gombau’s first since taking over in what was a fine game of football but for the VAR which stole a march to grab the headlines after two delayed red cards given to the Mariners.

The red mist descended on the home support at Gosford Stadium as both expulsions were, in the eyes of many, awarded harshly and with a skewed sense of severity due to the tendency of slow motion replays to make tackles seem more aggressive than they appeared.

CENTRAL COAST MARINERS

Ben Kennedy (GK) – 4

He’ll be embarrassed to be beaten at his near post from a shot that came outside the box – goalkeeper must do better from that situation.

Jake McGing – 7

Ran relentlessly down the right flank and his crosses into the area were almost always dangerous. It’s remarkable how quickly he’s risen to be an effective full-back. Relocated to central midfield after Brama’s sending off and then was sent off himself after another VAR incident.

Alan Baro (C) – 6

Not his finest game; he was dragged across enough on the Wanderers second goal to open up space for Cejudo to move into and score.

Antony Golec – 7

Golec looks good when on the ball and making aerial interceptions, but will be disappointed that both Western Sydney goals originated through his side of central defence.

Josh Rose – 5

Didn’t commit any major mistakes but was given the run-around at times by Jumpei Kusukami zipping down his flank and occasionally overcooked a pass up the line.