Thomas Kristensen – 6.5

Clever player and a clever ball should have given Ivan Franjic a goal. Again was the creator to put Maccarone through in the second half but the Italian couldn’t capitalize. As fitness returns Brisbane will be better for it.

Matt McKay – 6.5

Worked hard to upset the rhythm of the Newcastle midfield and got on top for periods. A little wayward with his distribution.

Brett Holman – 6

The switch of play from the veteran was a delight to watch, along with Bautheac’s. Had a chance to give the Roar the lead on the stroke of half-time but couldn’t get around Jack Duncan. Didn’t have as much effect as recent weeks and subbed off for Henrique.

Fahid Ben Khalfallah – 6

Not his best night as Wayne Brown and Steve Ugarkovic kept him relatively quiet. Had few chances.

Eric Bautheac – 6.5

Touches of class and quality distribution but needed more chances on the ball.

Massimo Maccarone – 7

Stretched the legs out several times in the first half and became a creative source with some nice touches. Should have done better when Kristensen played him in but he went for the assist and should have been more selfish. On a humid night was subbed after 78 minutes.

SUBS

Henrique – 6.5

It was a welcome home reunion for the multi-Championship winning ‘Slippery Fish’. Given 20 minutes and came on to a rapturous applause. Saw the headlines shortly after his introduction when he sprung the offside but his cross let him down.

Corey Gameiro – 6

A 78th minute substitute for Maccarone. Had one good chance forward but the ball didn’t fall for him.

Corey Brown – N/A

Replaced Ivan Franjic with less than 10 minutes to go. His fresh legs certainly made a difference as the Roar broke down the left with ease but in the end couldn’t make a telling contribution.