For Adelaide, they just wanted to get back to winning ways, having not brought home three points since their 2-1 victory over Perth Glory five weeks ago. This run of form has seen them drop to 5th –  and just two points ahead of the fast finishing Brisbane Roar.

With so much on the line it was bound to be a tense opening and it took both sides time to settle. The visitors had an unfamiliar front three whilst the Reds needing to get used to the presence of Johan Absalonsen again.

Two first half Daniel Adlung strikes had Marco Kurz feeling like it was all falling into place, before the Jets dragged one back to threaten.

Three goals in eleven minutes from the Reds then saw them cruise to a vital victory which also improved their goal difference which still may come into calculations in the finals race.

Adelaide’s foreign legion were simply outstanding tonight. See how we rated them below. Final score from Coopers Stadium Adelaide defeating Newcastle 5-2.

Paul Izzo – 6.5

A reasonably quiet night but was beaten twice from set pieces which has been a criticism of his this season.

Michael Marrone – 7

Didn’t have a lot to do defensively but did it well. When he had the chance to cross for Johan Absalonsen, time stood still as the crowd waited for it to drop onto the Dane’s left peg.

Jordan Elsey – 6.5

Some poor marking but overall not a very challenging night for the central defender.

Taylor Regan – 7

Gave away a nervy free-kick early and put in a typically physical performance. Without any known strikers in the opposition side didn’t have much to deal with.

Ben Garuccio – 7

Had a night out on his left boot with some gorgeous looking crosses into targets Dzengis Cavusevic and Nikola Mileusnic.