Heffernan found the back of the net for the first time in national colours when Australian played out a 2-2 with Kuwait in an Asian Cup qualifier on Thursday.

The goal continues what has been a fantastic comeback season for Heffernan after he missed most of the 2008-09 campaign after breaking his leg in the classic 5-4 encounter with Sydney just before Christmas 2007.

After a horror run of five defeats in succession, Central Coast are sitting in eighth place and in danger of missing the finals for only the second time in the club's history.

Many have written off the club's finals hopes but McKinna knows a win could see his team jump at least two places.

"Training this week has been the best it has been all season,'' McKinna said.

"The boys know we need a win and they've put the work in this week.''

"The table is very tight so a win gets us right back in the mix.'' "It's a big game.''

The last time Fury came to Gosford the Mariners looked on track for a win before a second half goal saw the teams share the points. However the club can take some heart from the last time they played North Queensland which ended in a thumping 5-1 win for Central Coast at Dairy Farmers Stadium.

And, while McKinna isn't expecting that type of result to happen again, he knows three points are definitely needed.

As well as having Heffernan and Vukovic back, defender Nigel Boogaard is also available after serving a one-match suspension.

McKinna also confirmed experienced central defender Chris Doig is a chance to play.

Doig has missed much of his first A-League season with two leg injuries, but played in the club's youth team last week and will be in squad.

"He's a good chance to start,'' McKinna said. "He went okay last week and has trained well.''

McKinna has paid tribute to the Bluetongue faithful which turned out in season record numbers for the New Year's Eve clash with Wellington, and he hopes a similar crowd will be on hand to help spur his side on to its second home win of the season.
 
"I know a lot are disappointed and there were a few boos, and fans vent their frustration in any way they feel is right, but it makes a difference to us when the Coastie Boys and all the families are still clapping the boys off and realising we're going through a hard time, we really appreciate that, and it will make a big difference on Saturday night when everybody gets behind us," McKinna added.