The Wellington Phoenix endured a frustrating night on March 15, 2025, as they were narrowly defeated by Sydney FC with a score of 2-1 at Leichhardt Oval. The result not only extended the Phoenix's winless run but also raised questions about their prospects of qualifying for the top-six playoffs.
Coach Paul Temple did not hold back his sentiments about the match, describing it as "a massive injustice" and asserting, "We deserved to win the game. We at least deserved to get away with a point with what we put on the field." His comments reflect the disappointment of the squad, who felt they were robbed due to two late goals from Sydney, scored from their only two shots on target throughout the match.
The Phoenix's evening was marred by challenges, including the late-game dismissal of defender Tiana Jaber, who saw red after receiving her second yellow card during the match. This event occurred just minutes before Sydney netted the winner, scored by Princess Ibini deep in stoppage time. The defeat leaves the Phoenix eighth on the ladder, just two points shy of the pivotal sixth place with only four matches left to play.
Reflecting on the match, Temple expressed pride over the team's overall performance and efforts leading up to the loss. He stated, "So much to be proud of in terms of what the team did and how we played." He was particularly frustrated with how the team managed the final five minutes after Jaber's expulsion, criticizing their defensive approach during this high-pressure period. Despite this setback, Temple remains optimistic, declaring, "We missed our chance to get in the six tonight, but we're still close and there's no reason why we can't still make it. We need to really grow as a team and learn from situations like this."
The game had started with the Phoenix asserting dominance. For the first quarter, the team enjoyed considerable possession, forcing Sydney's rookie goalkeeper Jasmine Black to make several saves early on. The Phoenix generated several opportunities, yet as halftime approached, it was Sydney who struck first. A late goal by Madeleine Caspers minutes before the break shifted momentum toward the Sky Blues.
The second half saw Wellington's intensity rise as they sought to equalize. Changes made by Temple to bring on fresh legs energized the squad, leading to Manaia Elliott's equalizer around the 75th minute. Yet, the excitement would be short-lived as the Phoenix faced another setback with Jaber's red card. Temple indicated the team's need to capitalize on home games and secure wins on the road, particularly against the upcoming opponent, Central Coast Mariners.
Sydney FC’s victory marked their fourth of the season, propelling them off the bottom of the standings. Coach Temple summed it up succinctly, emphasizing the balance of their playoff hopes: "We're certainly not out of it, but realistically, we’ve got to win at least three, probably all four of the last four games to really put ourselves in a position where we can clinch our playoff spot." There’s still hope for the Phoenix as they look forward to regrouping and facing Central Coast Mariners in their next match-up.
Next on the calendar for the Wellington Phoenix is the clash against the Mariners scheduled for March 22, 2025, at Porirua Park. The team hopes to translate their frustrations from the last match and channel them positively as they pursue the postseason.