THE Mariners have issued a “call to arms” to their fans to reignite the F3 derby, with a deal struck to allow Central Coast supporters free entry into Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium on Sunday.

As the Mariners players labelled the clash as one they had to “win at all costs” after last weekend’s loss to Wellington in Canberra, CEO Shaun Mielekamp said the reciprocal entry deal with the Jets was an important step in restoring the sheen to “the A-League’s original derby”.

Members of both clubs will get entry to derbies at each other’s stadiums, with Mielekamp and Jets CEO Lawrie McKinna preparing a marketing drive to boost the attendance.

“This deal is a first in the A-League with any of our members given free access on Sunday and vice-versa when we host Newcastle,” Mielekamp said. “Really this is a call to arms for our fans to use planes, trains and automobiles to get up to Newcastle and support the team.

media_camera Central Coast Mariners fans will get free entry to the F3 derby clash against the Jets in Newcastle.

“It’s time for all our supporters to get behind the team on Sunday — not just to get the right result but because it’s vital that this derby comes to life. It’s the original derby in the A-League and it deserves a premium timeslot — which it will only get if the fans come out and make it an event.”

Mariners winger Fabio Ferreira said the team was smarting from its subdued display against Wellington, and had to exorcise the 2-0 defeat with an improved outing in Newcastle.

“It was a very disappointing result and performance but now it’s time to pick up everyone for the game against Newcastle,” he said. “Everyone was very flat and the next game, we have to be more energetic.

“There were some good combinations at times but we can still do a lot better - when we do, we should find some more goals.

“This is a very important game for us to win - we need the three points and we want to win at all costs. We will be very strong and mentally prepared for a big game. The fans expect a lot and we want to give them (a good result).”