That would imply, the rocket actually exploded above and ahead of the aircraft, while all graphics shown so far seem to show an explosion in line of the approach from below (probably making use of the momentum the warhead already has approaching at supersonic speed).
It is quite possible that the missile did intercept the aircraft from above.
If that's true and the missile originated on the ground somewhere ahead of MH17, it's possible that the flight crew may have seen the missile (and it's smokey trail) rising and maneuvering ahead of them??? If so, the CVR becomes of increased interest.