Scott McDonald's close-range effort during first-half stoppage time proved the difference as Brisbane Roar claimed a 1-0 A-League win over Central Coast Mariners at Suncorp Stadium.

Bottom club Central Coast belied a run of consecutive losses that now stands at nine with an enterprising start to the contest, with Jordan Murray putting their best chance over the bar when under close attention from Aiden O'Neill.

The Roar grew into the contest and McDonald edged them ahead thanks to a VAR review, which showed Brad Inman had been incorrectly flagged offside when supplying the assist.

Robbie Fowler's Final Series aspirants move up to fourth in the table, two points above Perth Glory having played two games more.

The goal that made the difference for @brisbaneroar @ScottyMcD83 bags his third in two games after a VAR review overturned an offside decision.#ALeague pic.twitter.com/Sslbt1nQEm

— Hyundai A-League (@ALeague) March 13, 2020