Victory were too strong for Roar’s 10 men, winning the game 4-2. If you’re watching the replay of this game just switch it off at half time. All six goals and the red card came in the first 45.

Roar tried to start strong but Victory soon imposed their will on the hosts. Chances came thick and fast with excellent one touch passing. Kosta Barbarouses scored two, Keisuke Honda slotted a penalty and Ola Toivonen troubled the scorers at both ends. Honda gave Brisbane their penalty too, so both Victory attacking imports made a dent at the wrong end as well.

Eric Bautheac lost his head and saw two slices of cheese, one for the tackle and one for the afters. It was a crazy first half. In comparison, the second half was a bit of a fizzer. Victory dominated possession but didn’t fashion many good chances until late. Brisbane just held on.

John Aloisi will need to do some more soul searching with his team through the week. The results just aren’t there right now. Kevin Muscat will be grinning all the way back to Melbourne.

Brisbane Roar

Jamie Young 6

He’s been a very strong performer over the last few seasons. Despite the score line he wasn’t at fault for any of the Victory goals.

Dane Ingham 4

In his first start for a year he had to deal with the dynamic Victory attack. It’s a hard ask for an A League full back. Victory are playing a style that has been rare in the league until now. A League full backs are used to dealing with a winger who plays wide. Victory often leave that space free and play narrow then exploit the space. Tough to defend.

Avraam Papadopoulos 6

The giant Greek defender copped quite the smack to the face. With Victory’s movement and attacking verve he was probably seeing double before he got hit. He made some great last ditch defensive efforts to keep the score to four.

Daniel Bowles 5

He wasn’t as assured as Papadopoulos and this hurt Brisbane when he missed a few passes out of defence.

Connor O’Toole 4

Another full back who struggled with his defensive duties. He also butchered one of Brisbane’s few good counter attacks as well.