The loss is Central Coast's 10th of the season, in just 13 matches. While they remain rock-bottom, Mark Rudan's Wellington side move up into fifth, with 22 points after 13 games. 

The Mariners started brightly - as they have more times than not this season - and quickly won a penalty through typical Matt Simon bothering in the box.

A nervous-looking Simon's conversion lifted Central Coast's confidence and Andrew Hoole sent them into half-time 2-0 up, but Mike Mulvey just can't catch a break.

50 seconds into the second period Kye Rowles brought down Roy Krishna with a slight push in the back, Rowles was sent off and Krishna scored from the spot in a far too similar situation to the Mariners' loss to Sydney last week. 

Then the Mariners, once again, entirely capitulated.

It's understandable that when things are down all the one-percenters go against you - it's an oft-repeated sentiment for every football fan. But there was an acceptance at 2-1 up that Phoenix would go onto win, and they did.

Krishna scored again, before David Williams thundered the Nix into the lead. The Aussie striker has a woeful record against the Mariners across his A-League career, as do many footballers who have spent the last few seasons overseas. 

But that number's quickly running out.