Thomas Doyle – 5.5

Kosta Barbarouses was a constant threat for Melbourne Victory, who found a way in via Doyle’s line of defence. Doyle was left spinning, as the Victory winger created the opening goal and the defender failed to protect his goalkeeper in the build-up. 

Michael McGlinchey – 5.5

Picked up a yellow card in the first half following two consecutive fouls, the latter on Matias Sanchez. Struggled to make an impact on the game and made way at half-time for debutant, Matija Ljujic.

Goran Paracki – 6.5

Paracki found a lot of freedom and time in the midfield and was able to dictate the pace of the game at times. The Croat was happy to protect the defence, while his fellow midfielders supplied the strikers.

Matthew Ridenton – 7

Two shots inside the first 5 minutes showed the level of intent Ridenton played with from the first whistle. Was unfortunate not to have opened the scoring in the 15th minute, when the ball cannoned off the post, following a shot from outside the penalty area.

Roy Krishna – 7.5

Constantly looked to exploit the lack of pace in the Victory defence. Often played off the back of Leigh Broxham, who had his work cut out at right back. Thanks to a Thomas error, the Wellington striker scored the easiest goal of his career, but he’ll take it nonetheless.

Andrija Kaludjerovic – 6.5

Made less of an impact as Krishna and ended the game without a goal, despite claiming the winner. Might have scored in the opening five minutes, if he wasn’t fouled by Rhys Williams who was subsequently sent off.

SUBS:

Nathan Burns – 7

Entered the field in the first half, due to a tactical substitution and immediately made an impact. Whether trying his luck on goal or looking to supply the strikers, Burns’ role in the match was positive throughout. However… how did he miss that chance from point-blank range?

Matija Ljujic – 6

The debutant was gifted with a free header inside the penalty area, but placed the ball to the wrong side of the post. An average cameo to begin his A-league career.