The club’s major investor looked on as first half goals from Tom Pondeljak and John Hutchinson proved decisive.

Beating such a strong outfit has provided Lawrie McKenna’s side with another boost ahead of Saturday’s Pre-Season Cup clash with Wellington Phoenix at Bluetongue Central Coast Stadium.

And with players returning from illness, it all leaves the Mariners’ boss with potential selection headaches for the game with A-League new boys.

He told the club’s website: “Overall the performance was great, particularly in the first half and a good hit-out before the game against Wellington.

"There was some good movement, we could have scored a few more goals, but after the changes in the second half we settled down and credit to Blacktown for holding us.

"With more of the boys back from illness next week we should have a squad of about 17 to choose from, which means we will have some decisions to make."

Pondeljak engaged in a spot of ball-juggling before tapping home the opening goal with Hutchinson adding a second midway through the half.

The latter almost made it 3-0, only to be denied by Blacktown keeper Ivan Necevski.

The home side set up a tense finish when Michael Cindric’s diving header found the bottom left hand corner but McKinna’s side stood firm to claim the victory.

The Mariners’ open their 2007 Pre-Season Cup campaign at Bluetongue Central Coast Stadium on Saturday, against Wellington Phoenix. Kick off is at 6pm.