A brace from Gui Finkler has given Melbourne Victory a 2-1 win over Central Coast Mariners in the A-League.
It was Central Coast Mariners who began the match the better side, as they enjoyed the majority of the possession in the opening 15 minutes. Mitch Austin almost carved out a goalscoring chance with a precise cross from the right, but no teammates were on hand to convert.
However, they could not capitalise and fell behind on 16 minutes, as Finkler played a one-two with Oliver Bozanic before firing the ball beyond Paul Izzo in the Mariners' goal.
Victory doubled their lead just three minutes later, as Finkler bent a free kick around the wall and beyond a diving Izzo from 25 yards.
After no further action in the first half, Victory's lead was almost halved after the break, but goalkeeper Danny Vukovic was alert to keep out Nick Montgomery's effort after the Mariners captain took aim from inside the area.
Fahid Ben Khalfallah almost made it three for Victory on the hour, but his shot was saved by Izzo. Then, Storm Roux was on hand to clear inside the box after Mariners were forced to withstand a number of Victory attacks.
Mariners defender Jacob Poscoliero then made two blocks to keep the score down, denying Ben Khalfallah and Kosta Barbarouses.
The Mariners were rewarded for their second-half pressure when they made it 2-1 in the 89th minute. Matt Sim found the back of the net with a header from close range to give Tony Walmsley's side hope, but Victory held on for the three points they needed to reclaim top spot.
Steven Toplis
