Steven Ugarkovic – 7

Looked very comfortable and assured in his distribution as Newcastle seized the initiative in the first half. Continued to do well in the second half but once again he ended up on the losing side.

Matt Ridenton – 6.5

Did well with Ugarkovic to close down any space for the likes of Antonis and Troisi to exploit in the first half, but could have more influence in possession.

Jason Hoffman – 6

Hoffman seems as if he is much better playing in advanced attacking roles than as a fullback, although his display didn’t guarantee a starting spot over Ronald Vargas next week.

Dimitri Petratos – 6.5

A similar display to his opposite number 10 in Troisi as there was much endeavour without being brave enough in possession.

Jair – 7

The exciting Brazilian showed that he is at his best when he is given freedom to run at the opposite fullback, although like Georgievski his final ball was lacking.

Was a threat to the Victory defence all night, but he should have scored when he scuffed his effort from point blank range. Subbed.

Roy O’Donovan – 6.5

As usual the Irishman was a nuisance in the early stages but he would have been annoyed that he didn’t bulge the net inside five minutes. Was much more starved of service in the second half as Victory got back on top.

Subs:

Angus Thurgate – 6

Came on for a fifteen minute cameo but couldn’t make a major impact.

Kaine Sheppard – 7

It was surprising that the former Avondale man wasn’t brought on earlier, but when he did come on, he provided just what was asked as he netted the equaliser just moments after.