The league leaders crashed to a first half header from Shane Smeltz and there were further blows due to injury.

The game had barely started when the visitors were forced to reshuffle due to an injury to skipper Steve Corica.

"We started well and were playing well in the first 20 minutes but we lost Corica and McFlynn had a problem (head cut) and lost our way a little," said Lavicka.

"Second half we had a lot of possession and created a couple of chances but couldn't score. Congratulations to the Gold Coast."

Melbourne Victory's thrashing by Central Coast Mariners ensured that Sydney at least remained top of the table going into the A-League break next weekend.