Luke Brattan – 6

Working on full fitness and had his first start since impressing in Round 1. He niggled and broke down Sydney’s midfield but needs to find the form of years gone past for City to really do something this season.

Tim Cahill – 5

Australia holds its collective breath as Cahill awaits the results of scans on his rolled ankle, which meant an early shower, and probably a few ice packs. Did not have time to contribute anything of significance aside from a few hefty challenges, one of which led to the injury.

Stefan Mauk – 6

Closed down well and intercepted some of Sydney FC’s build up play. Gave away a lot of fouls along with Brattan, which would have been a part of Warren Joyce’s plan. Had to contribute to more phases of play tonight to make a difference.

Michael Zullo and Luke Brattan

Nick Fitzgerald – 8

Is starting to find the consistency that the football public has been waiting for. The frequent starts have certainly aided this. He broke the lines and used his pace well. Would have had the opening goal but for a brilliant Andrew Redmayne save. Shifted to right back in an interesting switch to allow Marcelo Carrusca to enter the fray further up field.

Ross McCormack – 6

Back to earth for the Scotsman. Was kept reasonably quiet but got into some good positions early on.

Bruce Kamau – 7

His light continues to shine brighter and like Fitzgerald, is turning in more and more consistent football. Got out of tight areas all night, lacked a killer ball but the Melburnians sang his praises and rightly so. If Australia do make the World Cup, anyone for a bolter?

Marcin Budzinski – 6

Came on for the injured Cahill, with some fancy footwork early. Was largely anonymous in the 2nd half aside from some nice cross field passes. The reason why their marquee man continues to be on the bench may have become a bit clearer though, with the Pole failing to inject himself into too much hard work.

Marcelo Carrusca – 4

Few touches and his lack of football showed, with those he did get being largely ineffective and off-target.

Neil Kilkenny – 5

Not really seen as an impact player and failed to provide any spark for City in his short time on the pitch.