Melbourne City have strengthened their bid for an A-League finals place with a 1-0 victory over Brisbane Roar.
Brisbane went into the match knowing that they needed to cut the five-point gap between themselves and City, but they fell behind after just five minutes when Jonatan Germano converted from close range.
It took a while for Brisbane to find their feet, but shortly before the half-hour mark they finally created an opening through Jean Carlos Solorzano, but his speculative shot missed the target.
As the first half drew to a close, Roar began to get on top, but after a curling effort from Brandon Borrello was well saved by Tando Velaphi, they went into the break facing a one-goal deficit.
After the restart, Brisbane pushed forward for the goals that they required to remain competitive in the race for sixth place, but Melbourne did an effective job in stifling their attacks, before almost nicking a second through Germano who fired over the crossbar.
With just under 15 minutes remaining, Germano had another chance to wrap up the match, but after his tame shot was straight at the goalkeeper, Devante Clut forced another save out of Velaphi from 25 yards.
A late charge from the visitors was expected, but they couldn't muster another opportunity and Melbourne are clear favourites to edge out the defending champions for the sixth finals place.
Darren Plant
