The Wellington Phoenix’s push for an A-League Men finals spot has taken a significant hit after a 2–0 loss to Melbourne City in Round 24 on 12 April.
The defeat at AAMI Park ended the Phoenix’s four-match unbeaten run and leaves the side five points adrift of the top six with just two rounds remaining.
Wellington Phoenix coach Chris Greenacre said the result reflected the balance of play, with the hosts capitalising on key moments in each half.
“I think we huffed and puffed a little bit to be honest,” Greenacre said post-match. “We were quite reactive, particularly in the first half. I thought Melbourne were picking up a lot of the second balls better than we did.”
Melbourne City opened the scoring in the 27th minute when a deflected strike wrongfooted Phoenix goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi. The visitors had chances to respond, including a near miss from Corban Piper before halftime, but struggled to test City’s keeper.
Despite improved possession after the break, Wellington failed to create clear-cut opportunities. City sealed the result in the 76th minute through a composed first-time finish from Marcus Younis.
Greenacre said his side lacked cutting edge in the final third.
“I think we had decent possession in the second half without really making the ‘keeper make a save,” he said. “All in all I think they were probably the better side today.”
The loss leaves the Phoenix relying on other results to keep their playoff hopes alive. Greenacre said the team remains focused on finishing the season strongly.
“While ever it’s mathematically possible, we’ll keep fighting,” he said. “We’ve got to dust ourselves down.”
The Phoenix now turn their attention to a crucial clash against Western Sydney Wanderers in Christchurch this weekend, where anything less than a win could end their finals chances in the A-League Men.
