The Central Coast Mariners have come away from today's match in New Zealand with a 2-1 loss to Wellington Phoenix.
The Phoenix were two goals up at half-time after goals to Rufer (32') and Zawada (40').
The Mariners tried hard in the second half to get back into the match with B. N'Kololo scoring in the 92nd minute.
With other results going the Mariners way again this week, they remain 2nd on the ladder leading into next weekend's game against Western Sydney Wanderers.
Next weekend's game against the Wanderers is on Saturday, 28th January with kick-off at 7:45pm.