Although the game had no greater meaning for Perth other than maintaining form going into finals, the result means that the Nix will face Melbourne Victory instead of Adelaide United next week.

The first half’s two goals came in similar fashion as they targeted the left-hand side where David Williams was deputising as wing-back, with Diego Castro setting up both of Andy Keogh’s headers.

Glory continued the massacre in the second-half as Castro intelligently moved into free space to receive a pass from Franjic and power the ball past the Phoenix keeper from inside the box. Chris Ikonomidis added his name to the scoreline before Brendon Santalab found a goal in what might be his final game of his career.

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El Maestro weaves his magic

Diego Castro was at his absolute best tonight, fitting that this game confirmed him as the Alex Tobin Medal winner as he’s been stupendous all year round.

His header that hit the crossbar for the first goal was not some of the talents we usually associate with the Spaniard, but the technique was nothing short of majestic. Even Australian sokkah’s resident statistician, Andy Howe, couldn’t help but compliment the header.

The second goal was more of the same as El Maestro’s abilities on the ball in close quarters was under full display as he held the ball before passing it to Ikonomidis that chipped it for Keogh’s header.

Although Keogh took the two goals and his headers had some great finishing, it was put on a plate from the best player of the season in Diego Castro.

Castro was able to cap his performance with a goal of his own which emphasised what an important cog he is in the Perth Glory machine. He is both creator and finisher.