Cassio's goal in first half stoppage time gave the Reds something to build on and the points were secure when Alemao added a second seven minutes from time.

Vidmar said: "At this time of the year it’s about getting three points. It wasn’t pretty but I think that we showed quite a bit of resilience, especially in the second half when Sydney had a fair part of the possession.

“But we stood firm and both goals probably came at the right time, so I’m really pleased and it’s extremely important that we come back on top after tonight and concentrate on the next couple of weeks because it’s going to be a pretty tough couple of games for us.”

Adelaide's next test comes in midweek when they travel to Telstra Dome to take on Melbourne Victory in a mouthwatering clash.