Gold Coast United climbed to second in the A-League by defeating Newcastle Jets 2-0 at Skilled Park today.

Jason Culina scored one and set up James Brown to score the other as Miron Bleiberg's side moved to within just two points of leaders Sydney FC. The hosts had the better of the opening exchanges and took the lead in the 33rd minute when Culina smashed a free-kick from the edge of area through a crowded penalty box and into the back of the net.

The United skipper turned provider five minutes later when he played a one-two with Brown to send the latter free inside the area and the youngster made no mistake to score his first goal in the A-League. Shane Smeltz almost added a third in the second half but the New Zealand international fired over after rounding the goalkeeper.

United have the chance to go top of the A-League when they play Sydney FC on Sunday, and Bleiberg believes the victory over the Jets will act as the perfect tonic ahead of that crucial encounter. "We played very well and it sets up a very big game against Sydney on Sunday," he said.

"We will be going for a win in Sydney and I think it is a three-horse race for the title now. It's tough playing three games in a week but we are on a high at the moment and have every reason to feel positive."