Both sides were coming off a mixed couple of weeks with the Victory being outplayed by Sydney FC last round before success in the Asian Champions League and Adelaide losing to Sydney 3-0, before ruining Western Sydney Wanderers' finals chances with a 3-2 away result.

In their four head-to-head battles this year it was Adelaide who had the edge winning two of the four but Victory demolished them in their last meeting at the same ground as tonight’s match, 3-0.

FINALS GALLERY: Victory v United

Despite playing to a very good game plan throughout, it was the Melbourne Victory’s stars who would win the day and set up a mouth-watering clash with Sydney FC in a Grand Final Re-Match next week.

MELBOURNE VICTORY

Lawrence Thomas – 7

Nervy start when his attempted clearance went straight into a charging Nikola Mileusnic. Rushed out when one on one with Nikola Mileusnic but didn’t have much of a choice.

Thomas Deng – 7.5

Provided width for the home team throughout and he burst forward with intent to lay off for Kosta Barbarouses who would eventually set-up the Victory’s equalizer. Was getting frustrated but did a good job to exploit space when it finally came.

Rhys Williams – 7

Used his frame to his advantage early and stood strong when needed. Booked for a trademark sliding challenge from behind on Baba Diawara but otherwise had a solid game.

James Donachie – 6.5

Forced the Adelaide attack wide and timed his runs well to shut down anything near the box.

Leigh Broxham – 7

The stalwart did a tidy job on much quicker opposition but did leave a trailing leg to earn a yellow card. Didn’t let his side down.

Carl Valeri – 7

Battled in midfield to try and wrestle control during Adelaide’s persistent press. Extremely fortunate to be on the field after a horrible studs up challenge on Ersan Gulum. Eventually won the arm-wrestle and helped open space for his side.

Terry Antonis – 6.5

A few flashes of class but spent most of the first half dispossessing the opposition and he won a few key challenges.

Kosta Barbarouses – 9

Got in behind on the left flank as he and Leroy George interchanged with each other. Was very busy throughout and looked the player most likely to create something for much of the game. It turned out to be the New Zealand international who provided both assists for the home side, to send them to a Grand Final re-match next week.