A definitive game of two halves: controversy, goals, sending offs and an incredible comeback.

Adelaide United had their sights set on top four, while Brisbane Roar sought to overtake Western Sydney Wanderers into eighth place.

Brisbane's attacking trio of Henrique, Adam Taggart and Dylan Wenzel-Halls linked with superb intricacy, dismembering a sleeping Adelaide defence with some fanciful work on and off the ball.

When Ken Ilso was controversially sent off for an unseemly studs up challenge on Brisbane captain Matt McKay, the Roar ruthlessly capitalised through Henrique. But while Brisbane matched Adelaide in pressure, they were wasteful in possession - particularly the likes of Eric Bautheac.

As Adelaide gathered momentum, it slowly became clear this would be one of the clashes of the season. 

The Reds' fightback began with a typically effortless Isaias free kick and while Brisbane were unprepared in the second, they shot themselves in the boot through red cards to Jai Ingham and Jamie Young.

This paved the way for Craig Goodwin, George Blackwood and Nikola Mileusnic to finish the comeback to the sheer elation of Hindmarsh Stadium.

The match unearthed painful memories for Brisbane. It's only the second time in A-League history that a side has recovered from three goals down to win: the first was the Roar's 5-4 semi-final loss to Western Sydney Wanderers in 2016. (Credit to Oz football's statistical revelation @AndyHowe_statto).

While Brisbane’s interim manager Darren Davies is likely to see out a tough end to the season, Adelaide United and Marco Kurz can look forward to a competitive run towards finals football.

Adelaide United

Paul Izzo — 6

On the receiving end of some brilliant work from the Roar attacking trident in the first half, arriving too late to handle Henrique’s run through the defence in front of him. Was not helped by his side’s lack of urgency in defence for either of the Roar’s following goals.

Ryan Strain — 6.5

Bombed up and down, competing with passion for every possible loose ball. Sloppily handled Hingert’s cross in the lead up to the Roar’s second, but it was not completely his fault as the Adelaide defence completely mismanaged said cross. Had a much better second half.

Jordan Elsey — 7

Displayed composure and quality at times to keep things calm for his side at the back. Had plenty of time to plant a header either side of Young a few minutes after Ilso’s red, but he sent it straight in to the Roar stopper’s grateful arms.

Michael Jakobsen — 5

Truly an unmemorable game for the experienced defender, rarely looking to take the game by the scruff of its neck as he has done in the past. Nearly had a tiff with Brisbane coach Darren Davies late on as the centre back attempted to maintain his side’s momentum from a throw in.

Scott Galloway — 7

Considering he arrived at Adelaide as a trialist, the former Mariner has had a high-flying season with the Reds and continued such form today. Handled the wily Bautheac well.