A stunning free kick by Leroy George - who was involved in all three goals - was followed by an all-in hug session between players and staff, underscoring just what was at stake.

It was only the third home win of the season for Kevin Muscat's men, and their first three points in more than a month, as they overtook the Reds into fourth spot.

Man of the Match George said the emotional sideline scenes were understandable, with the home side coming off a 4-1 mauling against Shanghai SIPG in the ACL.

"It was a very difficult moment for us," George told Fox Sports post-match.

"We played five games and we didn't win, and we know we have to win this game to stay in the top six.

"We have a tough season, and have to stay together, and this was a good moment to celebrate for all the players and staff."

An own goal to Taylor Regan opened the scoring on 22 minutes, although Victory can consider themselves lucky the goal stood after Reds striker George Blackwood was hacked down by Rhys Williams in the build up.

George doubled the advantage seven minutes later, before Adelaide United were hit by a crushing moment of deja vu - for the second straight week they found themselves two goals and man down.

Substitute Dzengis Cavusevic, lasted less than 10 minutes on the park, fouling Williams and then slapping the defender's face - Williams making a meal of it by dropping to the pitch.

Out of form striker, Besart Berisha, then fired home the third goal just before the hour to end a big night at AAMI Park for Victory.