Baba Diawara has scored on return as Adelaide United secured fourth spot on the table after defeating Brisbane Roar in an eight-goal thriller.
With the match tied at three-all international marquee Baba Diawarra netted what could be Adelaide’s most important goal of the season, before captain Isaias sealed the win in the 85th minute.
Diawara scored his first goal in over a year and could be the missing piece of the puzzle for the Reds as they head into the finals.
The 31-year-old has only made two appearances with the Reds this season – with his only other appearance for the season coming in Adelaide’s opening round.
It was only a few rounds ago these two sides played out a seven-goal affair in Adelaide – won by the Reds after a 97th Nikola Mileusnic header.
Adelaide will now host an Elimination Final against either Wellington Phoenix or Melbourne City.
While Adelaide United were playing for a spot inside the top four – Brisbane Roar farewelled a legend.
Matt McKay took the field one last time and even managed to provide an assist for youngster Dylan Wenzel-Halls in the 35th minute.
It appeared the Roar would throw a spanner in the works when they went into half time in front after a Nicholas D’Agostino goal on the cusp of half time.
But the Reds hit back straight after the break through George Blackwood but Brisbane continued to press and found themselves in front for a second time as Eric Bautheac converted from the spot.
It took some Craig Goodwin magic to level the scores for a third time in the 71st before Diawara and Isaias ensured the points would go Adelaide’s way.
