Source: Radio New Zealand
Pia Vlok of the Wellington Phoenix reacts. Elias Rodriguez / www.photosport.nz
Phoenix women’s coach Bev Priestman was left bitterly disappointed after finishing their home regular season with an upset loss.
The Phoenix were beaten 1-0 by lowly Western Sydney in Porirua which ended their hopes of winning the minor premiership and may prove costly in the play-off picture.
It was their second successive loss and now Wellington are in a three-way battle for second spot and a first round bye in the top six play-offs.
“I’m just gutted,” Priestman said.
“The fans have been unbelievable for us this season. I know it’s not the end but it’s the last home game of the regular season [and] I would have really liked to give them something to write home about.”
Bev Priestman head coach of the Wellington Phoenix Elias Rodriguez / www.photosport.nz
Melbourne City secured top spot, while the Phoenix, Canberra and Adelaide are all within a point of each other.
A win over Adelaide on Friday will secure the Phoenix second spot and avoid an elimination game. Instead they would qualifying for a home and away semi-final.
“Now we’ve got a tight turnaround and we’ve got to stand up and be counted going into this Adelaide game.
“What I would say is that adversity is good for you and you don’t choose when it hits you. Now it’s time to react to adversity.”
“Adelaide’s a big trip but a big opportunity to respond and that’s what I’m most excited about.”
A-League standings (points and goal differential)
Melbourne City 37 +15
Wellington Phoenix 31 +19
Canberra United 31 +7
Adelaide United 30 0
Brisbane Roar 28 -3
Central Coast Mariners 27 +1
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
