CLOSE: The Central Coast's Michael McGlinchey (left) and Adelaide's Iain Ramsay compete for possession at Gosford on Saturday. - Picture by Getty Images
THE Central Coast Mariners need an away win against Wellington on Sunday to ensure that they finish on top in the A-League regular season.
Last Saturday, the Mariners moved a step closer to achieving their goal when they defeated Adelaide 1-nil at Gosford.
But the Mariners face a tough schedule in the coming month.
Last night (Wednesday) they were due to take on Nagoya Grampus in an Asian Champions League fixture at Gosford.
The team was due to head straight for New Zealand after the game.
The Central Coast could have stitched up the minor premiership last week if only Brisbane had lost to Newcastle.
But Brisbane's 2-1 win over Newcastle has set up a tense final round.
Coach Graham Arnold said travelling to Wellington held no fears for his men who boasted "a fantastic record" against the Tasman rivals.