Smeltz leads the competition scoring chart with 11 goals but a glance at the odds for the golden boot race show how much the picture has changed in recent weeks.

As recently as mid October Smeltz was a $1.65 with one leading bookmaker with his nearest challenger at $6.50.

That same company now has the New Zealand international priced at $2.10 with Robbie Fowler and Sergio Van Dijk on offer at $3.50.

Fowler is now on nine goals for the campaign, netting again in his team's 2-1 win over Adelaide United.

Coach Ian Ferguson even thinks the former Liverpool man could have had a few more.

"He's (Fowler] been quite unlucky at times but (against Adelaide) he put one away and I'm absolutely delighted for him," said Ferguson.

While Smeltz failed to hit the target in his team's 4-0 thumping by Melbourne Victory, Archie Thompson took his tally for the season to eight. He is fourth in the betting stakes for the golden boot at $6.50.

Thompson may not be the favourite for the golden boot but his team has firmed has favourites to retain their championship.

Both TAB Sportsbet and Centrebet have Victory as favourites for the toilet seat. The former is offering $2.10 (Victory) and $4.50 (Sydney). The latter's prices are $2.25 (Victory) and $4.25 (Sydney).

A-League Leading Scorers:

Shane Smeltz - 11

Robbie Fowler - 9

Archie Thompson, Sergio Van Dijk - 8

Mark Bridge, Carlos Hernandez, Paul Ifill - 6