South Melbourne staked its claim as a genuine National Soccer League title contender with an intense 2-1 win over Parramatta Power at Bob Jane Stadium.

The victory - secured off the back of two Vaughan Coveny penalties - propels a club that failed to make last season's finals series to the top of the table after round 14.

South had to fight back after the Power's Fernando Rech put the visitors ahead after 15 minutes with a 20-metre driving goal.

But concerted pressure led to Coveny's first penalty goal in the 34th minute when defender Alvin Ceccoli was adjudged to have handled inside the area.

The New Zealand international again converted when Power goalkeeper Clint Bolton brought down South's Michael Curcija in the area.

While South took a three point lead at the top of the table, Sydney United slipped up thanks to a fourth goal in as many games to Wollongong's Chima Nwaogazi.

Former Nigerian first division striker Nwaogazi was largely unsighted at Sydney United Sports Centre but turned up when it mattered most, pocketing the only goal of the match in the 47th minute.

Adelaide United defender Shane Thompson's 87th minute header ensured his side shared the points with Sydney Olympic following an earlier goal to Pablo Cardozo in the 1-all draw at Hindmarsh Stadium.

On Saturday night the Brisbane Strikers maintained their top six placing with a come from behind 3-1 win against Northern Spirit at Perry Park.

The visitors opened the scoring one minute after halftime with a sharp header from substitute Adam Kwasnik that was cancelled out in the 57th minute by a header to the Strikers' Luke Morley.

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