Cornthwaite, who wore the captain’s armband on Saturday, netted his first goals for Wanderers since joining the club from Malaysian outfit Selangor in July.

The beanpole centre-back revealed a piece of former Socceroos defender Popovic’s advice had paid off with his two back-posts looping headers.

“I was speaking to Popa during the week about set pieces and he gave me a small piece of advice,” Cornthwaite said.

“A couple days later I get a double so it must have worked out and I’m happy to play my part for the team.”

He added about his brace: “It’s happened once before but they’re few and far between.

“It was nice to contribute and get my first goals for the club.”

Wanderers have won four games in a row in all competitions, including three A-League wins to move up to fifth.

“We’re finding the back of the net regularly now which is good,” he said.

“It’s a positive place to be. The last month has been very good for us, hopefully it can continue.”

He added that Wanderers hadn’t given up hope of a home final, sitting two points behind fourth-placed Melbourne City with two games to play.

“If you’re able to string a few wins together you’re able to climb the ladder quickly,” he said.

“It’s a league where anyone can beat anyone. Picking up consecutive back-to-back wins coupled with other top six sides playing each other gives us a chance. “