The Victory ran out a 3-1 winner, youngster Mate Dugandzic scoring twice for the home side.

On a ground at which Adelaide has lost two grand finals, it was on the backfoot early when Dugandzic slotted home an intelligent pass from Thai striker Sutee Suksomkit in the 18th minute to put Melbourne one-up.

Guest player Suksomkit impressed on debut, linking well with Socceroo Archie Thompson as the Victory dominated the first half.

But the start of the second half was a different story, with United more enterprising and unlucky to fall two goals down against the run of play in the 56th minute.

Victory fullback Matthew Kemp's sweet long ball unlocked the Reds, freeing midfielder Carlos Hernandez to pass across the face of goal for Dugandzic to tap in and cap off a memorable match.

For more, pick up a copy of today's Canberra Times