Adam Taggart scored a conventional brace against his former club to lead Brisbane to a surprising 2-0 lead at halftime.

But just when you thought Darren Davies was on the verge of a breakthrough - not just for Brisbane but in his coaching career - Joel Chianese broke through the lines, Daniel Bowles brought him down without challenging for the ball and Brisbane were down a goal and a man.

Neil Kilkenny dispatched the spot-kick and with Bowles sent off, Perth dominated. Aaron Reardon then deflected an effort with his hands and Kilkenny struck again, before Brendon Santalab and Andy Keogh nailed the coffin. 

Taggart could have had a hat-trick but blasted a penalty off the crossbar, such is life for Brisbane at the moment. As for Davies, there are serious questions over the Roar's defence and ability to hold a consistent shape in midfield.

This side should be far too experienced to cop four goals after losing a man. 

"We know we're a quality team," Jason Davidson said. "Going into this season we had our targets. the belief comes through our hard work and discipline.

"We put our bodies on the line, the boss should be very happy with the result."