City secured its third win of the season over United, who will face Brisbane Roar in the elimination finals, and set a new club-record points tally with 47, its place in the semi-finals having already been secured.

A victory would have pitted Mark Rudan's side against sixth-placed Perth Glory in the first round of the Finals but they fell behind to Moudi Najjar's opener in the 12th minute.

City pushed hard after the restart and Maclaren moved clear of Adam Le Fondre at the top of the scoring charts by tucking home a penalty after Tomislav Uskok was penalised for handball.

United was handed hope when Besart Berisha converted from the spot after being fouled by Richard Windbichler, but Maclaren ended their comeback chances with his 22nd goal of the season four minutes from time.