GALLERY: 'Important for us': win was exactly what the Newcastle Jets needed

EVERY win is important.

But when you registered just three victories throughout 27 games in the previous A-League season, any chance to bring up a triumph will invariably mean more to the Newcastle Jets than it does to most.

“It was important for us to get that win,” Jets midfielder Ben Kantarovski said post-game.

The young centre was one of a handful of stars that helped the Jets secure a 1-nil victory over the Central Coast Mariners at Wade Park on Sunday.

Kantarovski added it’s a win the Jets will look to build on as the club careers towards its round one fixture with last year’s goal-scoring wizards Wellington, although the Phoenix will be without Johnny Warren medallist and Blayney product Nathan Burns.

And as it was on Sunday and will be against the kiwis in three week’s time, defence is the focus for the Jets.

“Most championship teams are built on not conceding any goals and I think we’ve focused on working hard on not breaking down and making sure we’re really hard to score against,” Kantarovski said.

“I think we’ve shown that in our pre-season games. That’s what we’ll look at heading into the season.”

The 23-year-old defensive-midfielder said the trip to Orange has been worthwhile for his club, with Brazilian import Leonardo Santiago earning quality minutes in the first half for the Jets.

“He’s a quality player and brings quality to the table. He’s just getting some fitness into the legs,” he said.

“It was a good hit out here in Orange, it was good for us to come out to another regional place and show some community support out here. It’s great to get the game out here and even better to get the win.

“Happy to be here and play the game in front of the beautiful supporters.”