Source: Radio New Zealand
Wellington’s teenage sensation Pia Vlok is flanked by Perth Glory defenders. www.photosport.nz
For the first time in club history, a rejuvenated Wellington Phoenix sit atop the women’s A-league, after a tense 1-0 win over Perth Glory.
The successful outing at home capped a remarkable four-match winning streak, catapulting them past Melbourne City and Brisbane into top spot on the competition ladder.
In four previous seasons, the Phoenix women have never reached the playoffs, finishing ninth last season, but they seem to have found their feet under former Canada national coach Bev Priestman.
Captain Mackenzie Barry told SkySport her teammates knew exactly what was on the line entering the match.
“I’m just so pleased we got the win,” she said. “We were pushing so hard this week.
“It feels like a huge achievement and it felt like finals football today.
“We believe in each other, and we’re going to keep pushing and do what hasn’t been done before, so I can’t wait to see how the rest of the season goes.”
The decisive moment in the tough contest came on the stroke of halftime, when American forward Makala Woods pounced for her third goal of the season, tipping the match in Wellington’s favour.
Makala Woods celebrates her goal at Sky Stadium in Wellington. www.photosport.nz
The second half saw further chances for the home side, as Grace Jale unleashed a strike that clipped the crossbar.
Phoenix goalkeeper Vic Esson faced an injury scare, halting play with a hand injury, but she remained on the field.
Perth pressed for an equaliser late in the match, as Wellington’s defenders held firm.
Next week, the Phoenix women host Central Coast Mariners at Porirua Park.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
