Mariners whip Phoenix 5-0 in A League clash

Central Coast Mariners have moved within striking distance of the A-League Men top-six after thumping Wellington Phoenix 5-0 at Central Coast Stadium.

First-half goals from Marco Urena and Beni N'Kololo combined with second-half strikes from Jason Cummings, Garang Kuol and Matt Hatch moved the hosts to within two points of the top six. Unbeaten in their last seven, Nick Montgomery's side has two games in hand on their rivals in the finals and possess the second-best goal difference in the competition.

The injury-and COVID-ravaged Phoenix, though still above the Mariners on the table with equal games played, have now lost two on the bounce by a combined score of 11-0.