The Mariners keeper was part of a team that suffered a miserable end to the previous A-League campaign and was then dumped out of the Asian Champions League without a win.

However, a line has been drawn under those disappointments and keeper and coach are looking ahead with optimism.

Vukovic made several impressive saves during his team's 0-0 draw with Sydney FC on Monday night and saved a penalty as the club followed up with a 3-0 win over Belconnen United in Canberra.

McKinna told the Express Advocate: "I think he's still the best goalkeeper in the A-League."

Vukovic himself admits his form towards the end of last season was far from impressive but he has been working hard with goalkeeping coach John Crawley.

"I'm very determined to succeed this year," said Vukovic.

As for the team as a whole McKinna told au.fourfourtwo.com: "I think you could tell that we'd put (last season's disappointments) behind us when we had our trip to Queensland recently. Everyone's just looking forward now."

The Mariners will continue their pre-season campaign on Sunday, 12 July when they take on a Capital Football select XI at the AIS Athletics Track. Kick Off is at 1pm. Tickets will be available at the gate.