Central Coast Mariners coach Paul Okon has taken a swipe at the club’s critics following Saturday night’s hard-earned 1-1 draw away to Western Sydney Wanderers.

Adam Berry’s second-half goal secured a point for the Mariners against last season’s Grand Finalists, a result Okon believes should silence any doubters.

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“There was a comment made last week that the Mariners still need to show they’re worthy in the A-League,” Okon said on Fox Sports.

“I think in the first four rounds of this competition we’ve shown each game that we are an A-League team.

“If people haven’t seen that hopefully they will change their mind after tonight’s performance.”

Central Coast could well have nicked their first victory of the season as Connor Pain spurned a gilt-edged chance to make it 2-1 in the 59th minute.

Despite the missed opportunity, Okon praised his young outfit for responding positively to going behind in the second minute.

“We’re delighted with the performance,” the former Young Socceroos coach said.

“Not too many teams are going to come to the Wanderers, on their home ground, and dominate them, try to take the game to them.

“I think we showed that’s the style of football we want to play.”