I realise there were other games this weekend, but by and large the talking point was Melbourne Victory's heroic draw (did I just write that?) against Brisbane Roar. The first half went by in a flash, with goals and red cards making it one of the more unique sporting spectacles I've witnessed. The second half dragged on and on, as Brisbane unsuccessfully tried to break down the Victory defense. In the end, the result was 2-2 and the home fans went home happy. Irritated at referee Ben Williams, but happy.

Here's what I liked and disliked about Round Five:

Like

Archie Thompson: Besides scoring two superb goals, he was a thorn in the side of the Brisbane Roar all night. Nearly dead on his feet in the last ten minutes of the match, there were still a few moments when you wondered if he might actually be able to conjure up a late third goal.

Lawrence Thomas: This is what I love about sport: imagine Thomas sitting on the bench, happy to watch Ante Covic get on with his job as Melbourne Victory goalkeeper. Suddenly, Covic is sent off and Thomas is thrust into the spotlight, making his A-League debut against the most lethal attack in the country. Thomas responded beautifully, holding his nerve, making some big saves and helping nine-man Victory earn a precious point.

Melbourne Victory fans: I know I've been vocal about my dislike for Etihad Stadium, and that won't change, but the atmosphere for Saturday night's match was sensational. Victory fans deserve massive plaudits for their commitment, passion and overall noise-making ability. And ignore the fools in the media who say 25,000 is disappointing.

Backheel FC: Between Brett Emerton and Nick Carle, Sydney FC must be dominating the (apocryphal) A-League backheel statistics.

Jeremy Brockie: Who would have thought the veteran Kiwi would score not one, but two goals in sixty seconds?

Dislike

Ben Williams' decisions: Bad weekend for guys named Williams. While Ben's performance was nowhere near that of controversial caddie Steve, the referee's actions on Saturday night had Melbourne Victory supporters, players and coaches in an uproar. While the sending off of Ante Covic was correct, the automatic red shown Matthew Foschini was a poor decision and had a huge impact on the game as a spectacle.

Adrian Leijer's temperament: Leijer dances on the edge too much for my taste. He's a good player (and a nice guy) but his hot-headed personality has already gotten him into big trouble this season and makes me wonder if he's really ready for the captain's armband.

The fitness of Carlos Hernandez: The man is a magician with the ball, but it's embarrassing to watch him try and sprint upfield when Victory is on the attack. Surely Hernandez - and/or the club's training staff - needs to put in some extra hours.

Looks of amazement after fouls: I'm so over players mauling opponents, then jumping up in disbelief as if they never touched anyone. This is not limited to the A-League, nor to football, and it's an irritating trend in sport.

Brisbane's overpassing against nine men: Victory parked the bus and parked it well. In fact they took the wheels off and put the bus up on blocks. And while I understand that Brisbane has a system they like to adhere to, sometimes you just have to have a crack. Late in the second half, Thomas Broich unloaded a long shot and nearly scored. I would have liked to seen the Roar try this tactic a bit more, especially considering that untested Lawrence Thomas was in goal.