Central Coast mariners have held onto a 47^th minute strike by Bernie Ibini to defeat Adelaide United 1-0 at Bluetongue Stadium on Saturday evening.

Dario Vidosic for the visitors created the first chance on three minutes but the Socceroo’s effort was saved by Mat Ryan.

Soon after Ryan made a fantastic save to deny Nigel Boogaard which was the best chance of the half.

Adelaide continued to create chances and push for the opening goal with Vidosic again on 36 minutes but the former Brisbane Roar forward fired over.

Mariners created their first chances just before the break with Mustafa Amini and Pedj Bojic but both shot off target.

But after the hosts were given a blasting by Graham Arnold at half-time they came out of the break to open the scoring through a headed Bernie Ibini goal.

Oliver Bozanic could have doubled the lead soon after from distance but the Olyroo didn’t have his shooting boots on

Just before the hour mark they should have extended their lead but Michael McGlinchey’s free-kick hit the post.

Mariners really should have done better with their finishing as Bozanic and Patrick Zwaanswijk both had efforts saved by Eugene Galekovic.

Galekovic then made a wonderful save in stoppage time to deny Zwaanswijk once again.

But Central Coast were able to hold on to their lead to remain two points clear of Brisbane Roar with just one game to go.