Surprise packets Brisbane Strikers shot to the top of the national soccer league table on Sunday, beating a disappointing South Melbourne 1-0 at Bob Jane Stadium.

Written off at the start of the season, the Strikers now have two wins and two draws from four matches - three of which have been against teams rated championship contenders.

Louis Brain scored the Strikers' winner two minutes after halftime, slotting home from close range after Josh Rose found space on the right to supply a cross.

Brisbane has drawn most of its players from the Queensland XXXX League and was tipped to struggle this year.

But the Strikers were more than a match for highly-rated South on Sunday.

Their defence, well marshalled by player-coach Stuart McLaren, held firm against a South onslaught in the first half before taking control of the match in the second 45 minutes.

McLaren and assistant coach Luciano Trani - rated one of the best soccer brains in Australia - are proving a formidable partnership leading an inexperienced squad.

The duo had clearly done their homework on South, ensuring its midfield was shut down quickly and putting pressure on its defence which eventually caved in.

"Luciano and I have made a real target of being prepared," McLaren said.

"We don't have the most experienced squad, but we have a lot of enthusiasm and we have to harness that and be as well prepared as we can for every game."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP