The trickle of rain did little to ease the heat on field in Mudgee, with the first 45 minutes full of near misses from the Central Coast Mariners, including multiple from Oliver Bozanic that were denied by Blacktown City's goalkeeper Tristan Prendergast.

After returning from the half time break, pressure from both outfits was dialled up, with the seconds that etched closer to the 90 minute mark precious chances missed at scoring.

READ ALSO:

- Rising stars get back into the swing of things at WRAS orientation

- Crockett scores quickfire treble at Dubbo Turf Club

- 'I think we will have the team to win it': Raiders target historic premiership

With the majority of the 1046-strong crowd on the Mariners side, the Men's A-League club responded and scored the all-important goal on the 75 minute mark through new recruit, Frenchman Beni Nkololo.

Nkolo, who has quickly become a fan favourite since arriving from France, was involved in more attacking moments late on but it remained 1-0.

The Mariners now advance through to the final 16 in the FFA Cup while their domestic season starts next Sunday against the Newcastle Jets.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: