Norwich City legend Wes Hoolahan has continued his comeback from injury in Australia but couldn’t prevent Carl Robinson from being on the receiving end of his first defeat in charge of Newcastle Jets.

Hoolahan’s side were beaten 1-0 by Brisbane Roar, managed by Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler, at the Suncorp Stadium.

Former Celtic striker Scott McDonald netted the only goal in the opening 20 minutes after finishing from outside the penalty area.

Hoolahan had the best opportunity for the Jets, but lacked conviction in his effort. He was replaced after 61 minutes by former Cardiff City midfielder Joe Ledley.

Former Canaries striker Gary Hooper is also playing Down Under for Wellington Phoenix and the pair were set to meet on Friday, but that has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Pink Un: Former Norwich City midfielder Carl Robinson is managing Newcastle Jets. Picture: Ian Burt/ArchantFormer Norwich City midfielder Carl Robinson is managing Newcastle Jets. Picture: Ian Burt/Archant (Image: Archant © 2006)

The A-League have responded to the health crisis by closing its doors to supporters, meaning the last six rounds of games will be played behind closed doors.

The former Republic of Ireland international, scored 54 goals in 352 games for City between 2008 and 2018, then scored on his debut during a 5-1 win away to lower level Edgeworth Eagles in the FFA Cup.

However, disaster struck when a poor challenge during a 1-0 loss at Adelaide United in the quarter-finals left him needing ankle surgery in September.

The Irishman has worked his way back to full fitness and is being eased back into action as Robinson searches for a consistent run of form to move the Jets back up the table.

Robinson took charge of Newcastle Jets last month and went unbeaten during his first five fixtures. That honeymoon period is over with this defeat and the Jets sit six points off the top six.