The Wellington Phoenix are hoping to turn their season around after suffering a disheartening 6-1 loss against Auckland FC last week. With their A-League match against Melbourne City scheduled for Friday night at Sky Stadium, the team is eyeing one positive result as the key to reigniting their campaign.
Head coach Giancarlo Italiano acknowledged the whole squad's disappointment following the derby defeat, emphasizing the importance of not overreacting to the setback. “It’s probably more about making sure there’s not an overreaction, because a lot of these things can become very emotional," Italiano told reporters. “Everyone’s upset, fans – so they should be, everyone connected to the club, but I try to focus out and look at the bigger picture.”
Despite the recent loss, Italiano believes the team is capable of making the top six, projecting confidence across the squad. “There’s a belief in the group - one positive result will change the season,” he stated. With 19 points on the board, the Phoenix need to secure seven wins from their remaining nine matches to keep their finals aspirations alive.
Reflecting on the last match against Auckland, Italiano indicated there were moments within the game where momentum could have shifted. “There were so many talking points from the game against Auckland... It seems to be running themes against us," he said, pointing out how changing just one moment could redefine their season’s path.
On the injury front, the Phoenix are managing their squad carefully. Club captain Alex Rufer is gradually returning from glandular fever, making two appearances off the bench but still needing careful management as he aims for full fitness. “I don’t want him to relapse. There’s a bit of risk,” said Italiano, stressing Rufer’s significance to the team.
Similarly, forward Marco Rojas is being treated with caution after two months sidelined due to injury. “Starting him would be high risk. I want to give him as much time as he can,” Italiano remarked about Rojas’ condition. “If we can build him to 30-35 minutes, then hopefully after the international break he can get back to full fitness.”
New signing Chico Geraldes is also being managed after playing longer than expected during the derby. Italiano praised Geraldes for his tireless effort, even amid the disappointing result: “I didn’t want to take him off because he was still looking for the ball at 4-1, 5-1. He’s still running and really good to have.”
Midfielder Paulo Retre is on the brink of returning to the matchday squad after missing the last game due to a calf injury, and defender Sam Sutton will be back after serving his suspension. This fresh squad depth could be pivotal in reclaiming form against Melbourne City.
The upcoming Isuzu UTE A-League clash against Melbourne City is not just another regular season game; it’s seen by the Phoenix as a pivotal moment to restore confidence and shift momentum. With the match set to kick off at 7:30 PM, fans are eager to see if their team can deliver the performance they’ve been striving for.
Historically, the Phoenix have played Melbourne City 40 times, with the record standing at 12 wins for Phoenix, 20 wins for City, and 8 matches drawn. The head-to-head statistics highlight the challenge the Phoenix face, but also the opportunity to change their fortunes with determination and quality play.
For the Phoenix, overcoming the recent loss and returning to winning form is about more than just points on the table; it’s about restoring confidence and belief as they push forward through the season. With their steadfast commitment and belief still strong, the Phoenix are ready to bounce back and take the next step toward their goal of reaching the finals.