LOCAL 'FIND': Former Mariner Matt Simon. Picture: Mark Nolan/Getty Images
CENTRAL Coast Mariners will face four Hyundai A-League opponents as part of their pre-season preparations.
The Mariners first match of the competition proper will be against Western Sydney Wanderers, on Saturday, October 6.
Pre-season matches will be played against A-League rivals Adelaide United, Melbourne Victory, Brisbane Roar and Sydney FC.
Their first pre-season game will be against Sydney FC on Tuesday, August 21, at Christie Park, North Ryde.
A friendly game against a Central Coast Football Select will follow just days later at Pluim Park, Lisarow, giving local footballers the chance to show their ability against the reigning A-League premiers.
Coach Graham Arnold said the match would allow him to assess the level of the region's best players.
"It's not so long ago that the club found Matty Simon from the local ranks so we are keen to see the ability of the Coast's best players," Arnold said.