The Mariners were clinical in taking their chances, while Wellington Phoenix were left to rue missed opportunities. The penalty and the volley from Rasmussen and Gomez proved to be the difference, as the Mariners now look ahead to their next challenge which is a home game against Brisbane Roar. For Wellington Phoenix, there will be disappointment, but they can take pride in their performance, even though they couldn’t convert their dominance into goals. They host league leaders Melbourne City next.

Wellington Phoenix continued to push forward in search of a way back into the match, but their efforts were thwarted by a solid Mariners defense. Longo, Whinham, and Elliott tried to generate opportunities, but the Mariners' backline, led by Nash, Ray, and Rowe, dealt with the threat well. Despite a few promising moments, including a powerful strike from Elliott that was saved by Langman, the Phoenix couldn’t find the finishing touch. Substitutions and tactical changes could not alter the course of the match, as the Mariners expertly managed their lead.

Central Coast Mariners triumphed over Wellington Phoenix in an entertaining encounter, with the game’s turning point coming right before halftime. The Phoenix dominated large periods of the first half, creating several chances, but were unable to break the deadlock. Despite their control, it was the Mariners who struck first in stoppage time when Rasmussen was awarded a penalty after a foul in the box. She stepped up confidently to convert, sending her side into the break with a slender advantage. The Mariners came out strong in the second half and doubled their lead just seven minutes after the restart. A corner from the right was delivered by Ray, and when the ball dropped to Gomez in the box, she unleashed a superb volley into the left side of the goal, leaving the Phoenix goalkeeper Vilao with no chance. The goal gave the Mariners a much-needed cushion and allowed them to settle into a more controlled rhythm as the game wore on.

90+6'

The Phoenix work the ball down the left flank with Ingham and then Longo delivers a cross into the box. However, the ball is right at Langman, who comfortably holds on to it, ensuring no further threat. That should be the final action of the game, with the Mariners securing the win.

90+5'

SAVE! Longo delivers a perfectly placed ball into the box, sending Elliott racing towards it. Langman charges off her line and manages to push the ball away with her knees, denying Elliott the chance for a clean strike on goal. The Mariners' goalkeeper remains calm under pressure.

90+4'

SAVE! Elliott expertly turns her marker just outside the box and fires a powerful shot towards the top right corner of the goal. Langman, diving full stretch, makes an impressive save to push the ball away.

90+3'

Longo swings in a corner from the left, and Barry manages to flick it into the danger zone, but the Phoenix can't capitalize. Despite being in a promising position, they fail to get a shot off, and the Mariners scramble to clear the ball away.

90+1'

Jerez attempts to create an opportunity on the left but is dispossessed by Hughes, and in frustration, she fouls her opponent shortly after. The Phoenix just can't seem to get things going in this second half, with the Mariners continuing to hold strong defensively. Despite their best efforts, it's been a tough struggle for Wellington, and they’re finding it hard to break down the Mariners' defense.