"We played well against Sydney, we played well against Brisbane, and this was a real important game for two reasons, to try and stay in position number two and also because it was a special game against them, so everybody was focused and not only the result, but the way we did it, was fantastic," Coolen said.

"I was not surprised how we played because I know we can play football like that, but scoring that many goals, and we could have scored more, I was really happy with the way we played because we created a lot of chances and were very organised."

"I wasn't happy with the goal they scored. I think it was better to keep a clean sheet and it was possible to keep the ball at the end of the game, but four goals in an away game against a team like that with so much pressure in that game, it's a great result."

Adelaide, who had lost five of their past seven matches coming into the clash, now enjoy a four-point buffer in second spot ahead of third-placed Central Coast.

The Reds are not in action again until January 21 when they host bottom club North Queensland and Coolen said he was looking forward to the break.

"I'm happy with the week off now, especially with a good feeling after a game like that," he said.

"There are a couple of players who need a rest so that will be good for them and we can prepare the rest of the players for the week after and then there is more of the squad available, which is what we need for the last couple of games."