2009-10 A-League football: Central Coast Mariners defeat Melbourne Victory in opener

August 6, 2009 The Central Coast Mariners have defeated Melbourne Victory two-nil in the opening game of the Australian 2009-10 A-League football season at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne.

Melbourne, the reigning champions, played a relatively poor game. Despite having the majority of the possession, Melbourne could not score.

The Mariners scored their two goals withing the first quarter of an hour. Matt Simon scored the opening goal on ten minutes. The Mariners second goal came five minutes later thanks to an own goal by Rodrigo Vargas.

Melbourne captain Kevin Muscat pulled his hamstring late in the game and will be out for at least four weeks.