Matt Simon scored his sixth and seventh goal of the season before Kye Rowles became an unlikely third 20 minutes before he was sent off. Mark Bridges' goal ending a mere consolation for the Wanderers. 

It's only the Mariners third win of a dismal campaign but it's Alen Stajcic's second throughout his brief spell, which can give Central Coast a lot of confidence heading into next season.

For the Wanderers, it highlights glaring inconsistencies, especially in the wake of a heartening 1-1 Sydney derby draw last week. While there's still room for optimism under Markus Babbel, there are also a few question marks hanging ominously over the German's head.

Jack Clisby's relief was clear, the fullback showcasing one of his finest games in the A-League to guide the Mariners to victory.

"We're very happy with the way we played and the result we got," a phenomenal crossing Clisby said. "We knew if we played the way we wanted to we'd get the result we got. 

"I think it's that ginger connection, (Rowles) has gone from one of the biggest highs in the game to the biggest low, but I'm happy for him to get his first goal.

"Obviously I'm buzzing to be extending my contract, it gets a bit 'What am I going to be, where am I going to go?'. It's a lot of relief, with everything that's going on in my life, baby on the way soon, it's great to get the win.

"Personally I've really bought into what (Stajcic) has brought in. Two wins in five games, we're very happy to have him here."