Source: Radio New Zealand
Marisa Van Der Meer (L) of the Phoenix celebrates a goal with team mate Lucia Leon. photosport
The Wellington Phoenix have swept aside Adelaide United 2-0 to secure second-placing in the women’s A-League regular-season standings – comfortably their best finish.
Bev Priestman’s team will get a bye through the first round of the play-offs courtesy of a top finish, bettered only by Premier Plate winners Melbourne City.
They had never previously reached the knockout phase and will take confidence in their next fixture – a home-and-away semi-final.
Coming off successive losses, they turned their form around in style.
The Phoenix dominated fourth-placed Adelaide United in the early stages and were rewards with two goals in the space of five minutes midway through the first half – both from corners.
The first went to Marisa Van der Meer, who was unmarked at the back post to finish Brooke Nunn’s.
Then outstanding wing back Brooke Nunn found the net herself, also from a header, after meeting Manaia Elliott’s cross.
The Phoenix dominated first half and were then content to sit back in the second and ensure they maintained their advantage.
They attempted 13 shots to four, with most of their best chances forall in the first half.
Wellington have thrived under the eye of experienced international coach Priestman.
They finished the regular season with 10 wins, four draws and six defeats, bagging a league-high 38 goals and conceding the least goals, 17.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
