Neither team can make the domestic finals series however returning Wanderers star and Socceroos defender Matthew Spiranovic says his team is playing to win on Saturday night at Central Coast Stadium, and not just for pride.
"We're as motivated as ever," Spiranovic said. "We have some important games coming up in terms of the ACL."
Spiranovic said the Wanderers, second-last on the A-League ladder, are hungry to play out the season strongly and avoid a wooden spoon.
"There's a lot of positive signs coming out of the last games," he said.
"We're looking ahead - we're not too concerned about what's behind us."
Wanderers coach Tony Popovic said his troops would get a boost from the return of Spiranovic, who has been out of the side with a hamstring injury.
"He's an excellent player," Popovic said.
"He's had his fair share of problems this year from injuries but he's also had many highs. So him being back is a great lift for everyone."
Popovic said he was assessing whether to rest some players for the game - including Nikolai Topor-Stanley and Labinot Haliti - who are feeling battered from a draining season competing in both the A-League and Asian Champions League.
"It's been a tough season for them physically," he said.
"We'll see who's available tomorrow. If they're fit they'll be there, if they're not well leave them out."
Mariners striker Matt Simon, whose contract with the Gosford club won't be renewed, could be the dangerman in front of goal upon return from a groin injury as he spruiks his wares for other clubs.
"I think Matt Simon's dangerous whenever he plays," Popovic said.
"He's had a fantastic career at Central Coast and he's moving on. I'm sure he'll want to go out on a high."
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