Sydney FC on brink of title after beating Central Coast

Matt King/Getty Images

---

Sydney FC can claim the A-League Premiers Plate within 24 hours after a 1-0 win over Central Coast put them on the brink of a first trophy in seven seasons.

The Sky Blues struggled to find a ruthless streak at Allianz Stadium on Friday night but Filip Holosko's seventh goal of the season was enough to extend their lead to 14 points.

It means Melbourne Victory must defeat Perth at AAMI Park on Saturday evening to keep the race alive for another week.

Brandon O'Neill was at the heart of the only goal after eight minutes, passing to skipper Alex Brosque, who played it wide to Michael Zullo.

The left-back's cross was pinpoint and the finish expert as Holosko made an intelligent run to volley in at the far post.

Brosque had a chance to double the lead minutes later but was denied by former Sky Blues goalkeeper Ivan Necevski, playing in place of suspended first choice Paul Izzo.

Rhyan Grant was also denied before Brosque fired well over the bar.

The Mariners had more possession and worked hard to stay in the game but were well contained by their hosts.

But the Sky Blues couldn't put the game to bed, a problem epitomised by Bobo's inability to finish from close range after a Holosko header on the hour mark.

The game should have been over 15 minutes from the end when Liam Rose brought down Bernie Ibini in the box.

However, the substitute sent his spot-kick straight at Necevski and later saw an effort cannon back off the bar.