Sebastian Ryall – 7 - Was a bit rusty in his first start for the year with Paulo Retre being preferred as the fill-in thus far in season 2017/18. Worked his way into it though and telegraphed a message to Jordy Buijs to give him his first league goal for a while.

Brandon O’Neill – 8 - Anything the Brisbane Roar midfield threw at him he handled. Dropped back and pushed forward like a piston in the well-oiled Sydney FC engine. Trademark distribution along with his partner in crime Josh Brillante. Putting both of these two into holding midfield at the national level would not be an outrageous idea.

Josh Brillante – 9 - Lovely diagonal ball from right to left for Luke Wilkshire, which allowed him time and space to whip in the cross that won Sydney’s penalty on 15 minutes. His work rate alone was impressive but what he did in that work was the real highlight. Tackled strongly and often, passed accurately, intercepted and broke up play. By all reports was close to a Socceroo call-up for the Honduras games and would not let anyone down at that level. Might need to start practicing his Russian.

Adrian Mierzejewski – 7.5 - Simply glided across the ground. Lovely outside of the boot pass to Matt Simon to lay off the assist for Sydney’s opening goal. Punished the ball into the net for Sydney’s second from the penalty spot and eventually substituted after playing the full two hours on Tuesday night.

Alex Brosque – 6.5 - Played a supporting role most of the night and got into some good positions without being used. Always involved and pressed throughout which helped force turnovers.

David Carney – 7.5 - Clinical finish for Sydney’s first when he drifted into a central position at the top of the box. Started his sixth game of the season meaning he is only one off equaling his starts for last season. A big part of this team and still has all the craft and guile he has had for years.

Matt Simon – 7 - Rare start in Sydney’s star-studded line-up and his touch to fellow veteran David Carney on seven minutes was sublime. He harried and headed his way through the next 70 minutes before reacting poorly to a filthy act from Avram Papadopoulos. Straight Red for the Budgewoi Bull as a result.

Substitutes

Anthony Kalik – 7 - 68th Min – Most minutes he has been given so for in Sky Blue and showed signs he will get many more. Had a golden opportunity to put Sydney 4-0 up but Jamie Young did enough to deny him. Good touches throughout his stint.

Bobo – N/A - 85th Min – Got involved in his limited time off the bench and copped a harsh foul for his trouble. Not enough involvement for fair rating.

Paulo Retre – N/A - 94th Min - Not enough involvement for fair rating.