Melbourne Victory proved too strong for the Wellington Phoenix beating them 3-0 in a win powered by Besart Berisha.
Berisha scored either side of a Kosta Barbarouses goal to ensure the champions keep in touch with early A-League pacesetters Sydney FC.
Victory's first goal came in the 10th minute when the Albanian worked his way into the box and tucked it past Glen Moss.
Barbarouses grabbed a fortunate second when his cross deflected in to leave a helpless Moss beaten at his near post.
Berisha scored his second on the hour mark to wrap up the contest, showing good footwork to round Moss before managing to steer the ball home as he was going down.
The win lifts Victory above the Phoenix into 4th place.
Fans of both clubs unveiled "Save the Nix" banners before kick-off.
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