It is a statistic that sums up Gold Coast's dominance over the A-League - their striker Shane Smeltz has more goals himself this season than any other club.

Brisbane Roar have escaped with a 1-1 A-League draw against North Queensland Fury in Townsville on Saturday night.

Gold Coast United defeated Sydney FC 2-1 in an intense top-of-the-table clash at Skilled Park on Saturday night to overtake the Sky Blues on the A-League ladder.

A terrible mistake from Perth Glory goalkeeper Tando Velaphi saw Central Coast snatch a 2-1 A-League victory at Canberra Stadium on Friday night.

Adelaide United have hung on to draw 1-1 with Wellington Phoenix at Westpac Stadium after the home side squandered a number of chances to claim all three points.

Melbourne Victory's worst fears have been confirmed, with midfielder Billy Celeski facing a year on the sidelines following his sickening knee injury.

Football Federation Australia CEO Ben Buckley denies plans to expand the A-League are in crisis, despite the late withdrawal of one of the consortia seeking to bring a 12th side into the competition.

As Adelaide United's brand is tarnished by off-field controversy and poor form, Wellington Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert believes "character" is his side's secret weapon.

Adelaide United midfield talisman Paul Reid has warned only victory against Wellington Phoenix can sweeten a sour start to the season and dismiss taunts of mental fragility.