So what did we learn from this packed weekend? Read on …

1. Mariners (Kits) Need to Dominate
Are Central Coast Mariners above the law? Obviously not, but they do require an away kit with greater contrast to their home outfit. The status quo must have been cleverly orchestrated by Graham Arnold to have his side always playing at home, though it did make for frustrating viewing during their clash with Wellington (especially when players were in front of the large Solo ad hoardings...). Respite only came at two junctures: first, whenever the ball made its way to fluoro duo Tony Warner and Mat Ryan and, second, whenever Daniel’s pornographic-quality moustache - an outstanding early contribution to Movember from the Brazilian - flashed into view.

Asensio's Screamer Vs FC Barcelona
Asensio's Screamer Vs FC Barcelona
In one of Real Madrid's most outstanding performances at the Camp Nou, Los Blancos beat FC Barcelona 3-1 in the Spanish Supercup. Real were leading 2-1 after Cristiano Ronaldo's 80th minute goal, but just before the final whistle, we sealed the win with this beautiful Marco Asensio strike.
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2. Fortune (Almost) Favours the (Tactically) Brave
He’s still far from convincing the masses but credit should go to John van’t Schip for his tactical inspiration on Friday night. It may not have been full innovation – Brisbane succeeds with a similar structure – but it was a departure from the norm for Melbourne Heart, and a mightily fruitful one. If it weren’t for the extra defensive insurance, Brendan Hamill mightn’t have had the courage to press high on Bruce Djite, win the challenge and channel Der Kaiser in surging forward and coolly striking the opener from distance. The move could also have paid dividends on a number of other occasions with wingbacks Michael Marrone and Aziz Behich afforded licence to get forward, both even going close to finding the net. Yes, even FourFourTwo enjoys flexibility.

3. Avoid the Newcastle Sun
Kasey Wehrman, Ruben Zadkovich, Jobe Wheelhouse, Taylor Regan, Francis Jeffers and Billy Mehmet all playing through the centre corridor of Ausgrid Stadium. Notice a theme? Such a congregation of shaved domes would not normally present a problem – we applaud Newcastle’s determined solidarity – but in a pitch half bathed in afternoon sunshine and half in shadow, player identification became nigh on impossible. Heck, Strebre Delovski was on track for man of the match honours until his shirt colour became apparent. A different timeslot for the Jets, please (note: only a half serious request).

4. There’s Only One Archie Thompson
Two weeks ago we said Shane Smeltz was the best pure goalscorer in the league. Well, not even the Perth sharpshooter could have matched Archie Thompson’s output on Saturday night. Top striker in the league or not, only Archie could have fired Victory into the lead from the sticky situation they found themselves in against Brisbane. His harrying of defenders, ingenuity in front of goal and pace to spring their high defensive line make him the perfect package for foiling Brisbane’s defence. It may take a team of Thompson’s to bring down the men in Orange.

5. Nick Is Next
Nick Carle will be the next A-Leaguer called into the Socceroos squad, put your Cup winnings on it. At least he should be, anyway (so don’t blame us when you lose your $3.50). Even prior to his excellent equaliser in Sydney’s stunning triumph over Gold Coast you could see his immediate understanding of attacking situations is among the best in this league. Carle’s exploits will only come into sharper focus if the Sky Blues are willing to part with some of their own winnings and land a quality marksman. Assuming Holger Osieck isn’t averse to recalling a 29-year-old, and the latest inclusions of Harry Kewell and Brett Emerton suggest he isn’t, he can and should be next in line.