A nine-man Adelaide faced adversity and took home a deserved three points with a George Blackwood winner.

Baba Diawara opened the scoring for the Reds and Mark Milligan excellently levelled but it wasn’t enough for the hosts.

A galactic performance by Man of the Match, Paul Izzo was the main stand-out of the game, as the goalkeeper protected a slender lead during seven minutes of added time.

Melbourne Victory

Lawrence Thomas (GK) - 6

No attempt to save the first goal, but it was poor defending in front of him. Nice diving save to deny Diawara in the 30th minute. Couldn’t stop the neat work of Blackwood’s finish.

Jason Geria - 4

Failed to pick-up Ryan Kitto and Ben Garuccio down the wing. Did make some surging runs of his own.

Thomas Deng -3

Left Adelaide too open and free.

Rhys Williams - 6

Was unconvincing early and was too open. Made a great run to slice through Adelaide’s midfield to win a set-piece.

Wasn’t able to keep up with Nikola Mileusnic’s speed. Was thrust forward late in the match and couldn’t capitalise.

Stefan Nigro - 6

Defended well at times on Mileusnic but the Reds’ winger was too good on this occasion.