Adelaide United eventually capitalised on its numerical advantage after a dramatic 2-1 win against Sydney FC in a tempestuous affair at Coopers Stadium on Friday.
Marcelo Carrusca’s last-gasp penalty separated the two sides handing the Reds an emphatic victory, after they was rewarded for its persistence.
An outrageous strike from Jimmy Jeggo was swiftly cancelled out by a sumptuous goal by Filip Holosko as the Sky Blues were reduced to 10 men following Alex Gersbach’s reckless tackle on the 23-year-old.
However, the Argentine’s expertly dispatched spot kick ensured the three points would stay in Adelaide.
It means Graham Arnold’s men remain winless in their past five league visits to the city of churches – a streak stretching back to February 2012.
Adelaide United
Eugene Galekovic – 6.5: Made a couple of smart saves and swept up any loose balls that came his way.
Michael Marrone – 5.5: The defender was unable to venture forward like we have been accustomed to seeing and was contained well by Gersbach.
Dylan McGowan – 6.5: Distribution was imperious throughout proceedings and won a number of crucial headers snuffing out any imminent danger. He also won the penalty after he was adjudged to have been fouled in the area.
Jordan Elsey – 6: Threw his body on the line and was involved in a nasty collision with his team mate early on, but otherwise had a solid outing.
Tarek Elrich – 6: Received his fourth booking of the campaign which subsequently restricted him from committing tackles.
Isaias – 6: Misplaced a few of his passes, though overall screened the defence expertly and controlled his side’s tempo.
Jimmy Jeggo – 8: Worked hard in midfield and after seeing off a dangerous tackle scored a phenomenal strike, having a second bite of the cherry. His initial shot thudded into the crossbar, but converted his subsequent effort on the half-volley to give the hosts the lead.
Marcelo Carrusca – 8: Perhaps the best on ground after the Argentine exhibited another instrumental showing, demonstrating elegance on the ball and nonchalantly converting his last-minute penalty to win the game.
Pablo Sanchez – 6.5: Hit the apex with an audacious free kick attempt and also had a goal ruled out for offside in a game where the Spaniard was embroiled in the thick of the action.
Sergio Cirio – 5.5: The 30-year-old did not experience his greatest game in a Reds shirt and was nullified well by the Sky Blues.
Craig Goodwin – 6: Attacked with purpose down the flanks, but lacked end product in the final third.
Substitutes
Bruce Djite – N/A: Replaced Marrone in the 89th minute.
George Mells – N/A: Brought for the last kick of the game for Carrusca.
Click NEXT to view Sydney FC player ratings
