Perth Glory missed a chance to strengthen their position atop the Hyundai A-League ladder in a 0-0 home draw with Adelaide United on Wednesday night.
Tony Popovic’s men struggled to find fluidity amid persistent showers at HBF Park and had to settle for a second straight stalemate that leaves them two points above second-placed Sydney FC.
The result means Adelaide, who registered more shots on target than their in-form hosts, edge ahead of Wellington Phoenix on goal difference and into fifth.
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Attacking openings were rare throughout the opening exchanges despite the willingness of both sides to get on the front foot.
The unlikely figure of Dino Djulbic did force Paul Izzo into a low save with a well-struck drive from distance just beyond the 30-minute mark.
Reds goalkeeper Izzo was less assured in fumbling a firm Chianese effort and was fortunate to be bailed out by Brendon Santalab’s foul as the striker attempted to reach the loose ball.
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A series of fouls interrupted the flow of the second stanza, leading Popovic to call Diego Castro and Andy Keogh from the bench after the hour.
Adelaide grew into the match as the half wore on and would have been ahead had Djulbic not bravely thrown himself in front of a Craig Goodwin shot.
That proved the closest either side came despite a pair of chances in both boxes towards the end, with Ryan Kitto and Jason Davidson both unable to make the most of shooting opportunities.
