Joshua Brillante - 8

Quiet achiever, shutting down Melbourne’s midfielders adequately although for large periods Keisuke Honda was allowed a lot of space out wide.

Siem de Jong - 7

Influential first half without quite hitting his stride, kept relatively quiet by Victory’s possession. When he gained the ball in forward positions, his distribution was calm and practiced.

Brandon O'Neill - 8

A little more overt in his presence than Brillante, but suffered from some loose passes at times in the first half. A defensive rock in the second, scrapping and blocking everything.

Milos Ninkovic - 8

Very strong display, able to cut quickly between markers and win space for his team consistently. The end product wasn’t always there – a few passes were a tad short or off their mark – however he was the key playmaker in the first half.

Adam Le Fondre - 8

Crafty to win the penalty, comfortable in taking it. The goal sprung the Englishman to life and he was instrumental from there on.

Alex Brosque - 8

Ending his career on his terms, it’s obvious why Corica chose his Big Blue experience and passion over the likes of Reza Ghoochannedjad and perplexing why he’s retiring given the influence he could continue to have on the game, especially at a smaller club.

SUBS

Anthony Caceres - 6

Few sloppy passes in his short spell on the pitch, pity because he’s been in stellar form.

Danny De Silva - 6

Quickly into the action but doesn’t seem as experienced as he should be. Price of making it too early it seems, he might see his role a little easier than it actually is.

Paulo Retre - 6

Actually fairly good display, possible selection for next week if Perth want a little more pace.