Adelaide United dominated but it was Brisbane Roar that capitalised on their chances and held a two goal advantage at half time. Despite captain Matt McKay’s send-off just before the break, John Aloisi’s men held on with 10 men for a 2-1 win at Coopers Stadium.
Fahid Ben Khalfallah opened the scoring following an error by Isaias and Massimo Maccarone doubled the lead with a beautiful finish.
George Blackwood halved the deficit in the second period, tapping into an empty net off a Nikola Mileusnic rebound. There was desperation at both ends but Adelaide couldn’t find the equaliser against Roar's resilient defence.

Adelaide United
Paul Izzo (GK) - 6.5
Made some good, routine saves. Wasn’t able to do much after defensive errors led to goals.
Ryan Strain - 8
Proving to be a real revelation for the Reds with brilliant passes and crosses into the area. The rolling pass to Michael Marrone for a chance showed great maturity as well as stealing the ball off Corey Gameiro to spark Adelaide’s goal.
Jordan Elsey - 7.5
Started defensively well again and was solid throughout the match. The defender had a few headed efforts of his own.
Ersan Gulum - 5
Booked early in the game and had to walk a tightrope thereafter. Did well moving the ball up field.
Ben Garuccio - 6
Worked hard down the wing but needed to move the ball quicker and take chances.
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