Roar went in to the first of two elimination finals this weekend with the unwanted streak of being unable to beat City in their last 10 encounters at AAMI Park.

City began the livelier of the two teams, taking advantage of a shaky Brisbane defence. The high press of Melbourne impressively destabilised Brisbane’s attempts to retain possession

Despite the match being an affair largely dominated by Melbourne, City backed off in intensity during the second half allowing Roar to attempt to shift the match, the result of which was relatively unsuccessful.

Jamie Young was essential in leaving City understandably perplexed that the score line was not higher.

Melbourne City

Dean Bouzanis 6 

Rarely tested throughout the 90.

Nathaniel Atkinson 7

Pushed forward to take advantage of Brisbane’s lack of effort to venture forward and linked up well with Arzani to force Brisbane in to some desperate defending at times.

Bart Schenkeveld 7

Fresh from notching City’s Player of the Season award the classy central defender worked proactively to prevent the Roar on several occasions and to maintain City’s overwhelming of Brisbane.

Osama Malik 6 

Solid defensive shift throughout. Had a fantastic chance to put City ahead following an exquisite close range Jamieson free kick.

Scott Jamieson 7 

Battled wholeheartedly up and down his flank, constantly putting Brisbane on the back foot with his movement.