Source: Radio New Zealand
Auckland FC players celebrate a goal, A-League, Wellington Phoenix v Auckland FC, Sky Stadium, Wellington. Saturday 21 February, 2026 © Mandatory credit: Kerry Marshall / www.photosport.nz Kerry Marshall / www.photosport.nz
Auckland FC are closing in on the top of the A-League after dismantling the Wellington Phoenix 5-0, a dominant win that puts them just one point behind league leaders Newcastle.
Wellington’s hopes of securing their first-ever win over their northern rivals were dashed early due to a bizarre goal keeping error in the 24th minute.
A dejected Phoenix captain Alex Rufer addressed home fans immediately after the heavy defeat.
“We need to look at this and be accountable – it’s not good enough,” he told Sky Sport.
The talking point came when Wellington goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi was caught out of position under a long clearance from Auckland defender Jake Girdwood-Reich.
Unable to stop the ball, Oluwayemi brushed it into his own net in a costly howler as he attempted to head the ball away.
Auckland carried the momentum as Jesse Randall scored his ninth goal of the season, adding a second just before the break.
Guillermo May also found the net in the 41st minute.
Later Randall was involved again, setting up Lachlan Brook for a goal.
Phoenix coach Giancarlo Italiano benched Oluwayemi at halftime, replacing him with Alby Kelly-Heald as the Phoenix trailed 4-nil.
Auckland coach Steve Corica said the three points were vital in closing the gap on Newcastle.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
