Hiroki Sakai scored Auckland's first goal. (File image) Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Auckland FC have extended their A-League men's competition lead after a comprehensive 4-1 victory over the Central Coast Mariners in Gosford on Saturday night.
They now lead Adelaide by four points and will head into the new year as league leaders - though that margin might narrow depending on other results.
Bouncing back from their first loss of the season, 4-0 to Western United at home and coach Steve Corica blasting them as ''complacent'', the Aucklanders quickly put the record straight again.
Hiroki Sakai headed one home in the 12th minute, but then Alfie McCalmon equalised for the Mariners three minutes later with help from a Nando Pijnaker deflection.
Jake Brimmer scored with a scorching volley in the 31st minute and seven minutes later Guillermo May added more pain to the Mariners with the third goal after a defensive mix-up.
It remained 3-1 until the 84th minute when Logan Rogerson, sent on by Corica from the bench, blasted the goal that spelt the end of any Central Coast challenge.
Auckland FC return home to Mt Smart Stadium where they will play Melbourne Victory on New Year's Day.
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