Wellington Phoenix hammer in three goals against Central Coast ...

Sam Sutton celebrates scoring a goal as the Phoenix wrap up their win against Central Coast Mariners Photo: AAP / www.photosport.nz

The Wellington Phoenix have blown away the defending A-League men's champions the Central Coast Mariners with a 3-0 win in Gosford.

The dominant performance against the two-time champions was marked by an unbelievable long-range strike off the free kick for Wellington's Hideki Ishige in the early stages.

Ishige's incredible goal in the 15th minute will be shown on the highlights reel as a contender for the goal of the season.

The Japanese star was in the action again setting up Kosta Barbarouses who scored to send the Wellington side into the sheds at half-time with a 2-nil lead.

Sam Sutton knocked in a third after displaying impressive footwork for his first goal in two years.

The wins sees the Phoenix climb up to third on the A-League ladder, although they could be surpassed by Sydney FC and Melbourne City on Sunday evening.

Wellington will be delighted to rebound from last week's defensive howler when they lost in the derby to rivals Auckland FC.

And Auckland, who had the bye this round, are still holding second place on the table.

Meanwhile, Central Coast Mariners remain near the foot of the table in tenth position, dropping below Newcastle Jets due to Sunday's three goal defeat.