Ivan Franjic's first Melbourne City goal gave them a 1-0 home win over 10-man Western Sydney Wanderers, their first victory in six A-League matches.
The defender impressively volleyed home in the the 19th minute after a corner had been cleared into his path.
That strike proved decisive, with Wanderers having to play an hour a man down after centre-back Aritz Borda was sent off for catching Bruno Fornaroli in the face.
Victory provided a welcome lift for City in their first game since the shock resignation of head coach John van 't Schip.
The Dutchman left the club earlier this week to return to his homeland and contribute to the palliative care of his father.
City move up to third under interim manager Michael Valkanis, three points behind second-placed rivals Melbourne Victory having played two games more.
