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Wellington Phoenix Women Secure Historic Point
The Wellington Phoenix women’s team achieved a significant milestone, earning their first-ever point on Victorian soil with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Melbourne Victory. The result, secured in the dying minutes of their Round 6 Ninja A-League clash at the Home of the Matildas, extended the Phoenix’s unbeaten streak to three matches.
A Game of Grit and Determination
Wellington entered the match having lost all seven of their previous encounters in Victoria. The Victory, riding high on form, took the lead early in the second half with a penalty converted by Alana Jancevski. However, the Phoenix refused to back down.
Substitute Manaia Elliott delivered a clutch equalizer in the 90th minute, meeting Emma Main’s pinpoint cross with a towering header that left Victory goalkeeper Courtney Newbon helpless.
Phoenix head coach Paul Temple hailed his team’s resilience and execution of the game plan.
“We had a strategy, and the women executed brilliantly,” Temple said. “We defended solidly, created counter-attacking opportunities, and stayed in the game long enough to make an impact from the bench. It was a proud moment for all of us.”
Tactical Shifts and a Rewarding Result
The match began with Wellington’s defense under pressure as Melbourne Victory launched an aggressive attack. Phoenix goalkeeper Carolina Vilão played a pivotal role, denying multiple early attempts, including a point-blank save from Nicki Flannery.
While Victory dominated possession in the first half, Wellington’s counter-attacks showed promise. Alyssa Whinham came close to breaking the deadlock after a clever play but was thwarted by Victory’s goalkeeper.
Melbourne finally broke through in the second half with a penalty, but the Phoenix’s tactical changes, including the introduction of fresh legs in Elliott, Main, and Mebae Tanaka, turned the tide. Elliott’s late header encapsulated the team’s fighting spirit and tactical discipline.
“Staying composed, showing character, and pushing for a result away from home is a significant step forward for us,” Temple added. “This performance gives us immense confidence moving forward.”
A Promising Horizon
The draw leaves Wellington eighth on the ladder, just one point shy of the top six, as they continue to build momentum. The team’s next challenge comes against reigning champions Sydney FC at Porirua Park.
