Perth all but end Adelaide's play-off hopes

Perth Glory are closing in on a home final in the A-League play-offs after a polished 2-0 victory over Adelaide United at Hindmarsh Stadium. First-half goals from striker Billy Mehmet and industrious former Socceroos midfielder Jacob Burns were enough to give the Glory a vital three points. Mehmet opened the visitors' account in the fifth minute, before Burns rocketed home a 20-yard half-volley to ensure the western Australians temporarily have a hold on third spot, with Wellington Phoenix not playing until Sunday. Adelaide substitute Fabian Barbiero was sent off five minutes from time for an off-the-ball digression with Perth enforcer Steve Pantelidis to cap a miserable night for the Reds. The loss has all but ended Adelaide's dwindling hopes of a play-off spot as they sit in ninth, eight points off Newcastle Jets in sixth.