High Winds Delay Phoenix Finale: Perth Clash Moved to Sunday

Pitchside HQ – May 1, 2025

WELLINGTON — The Wellington Phoenix men’s A-League clash against Perth Glory has been rescheduled to Sunday after severe winds grounded flights into the capital, leaving the visiting side stranded in Auckland.

Originally slated for Friday evening at Sky Stadium, the regular season finale was postponed following a red-alert wind warning across the Wellington region. The Australian Professional Leagues (APL) confirmed the decision late Thursday after exhausting travel contingency plans for Perth’s squad.

“Due to the uncertainty around safe and timely travel, Sunday’s 5 p.m. kick-off was the most viable option,” APL said in a statement. All tickets sold remain valid for the new fixture date.

Perth Glory had remained in Auckland following their defeat to Auckland FC last weekend and were unable to secure passage south in time for the match.

Farewell for Fan Favorites

The match marks a significant moment for Wellington Phoenix, with two veteran players preparing for their final home appearance. Club stalwarts Sam Sutton and Scott Wootton, each nearing 100 A-League caps, will bid farewell to the Phoenix faithful.

Head coach Giancarlo Italiano said both men would start if fit.

“I’ll play the best team that’s available,” Italiano told reporters Thursday. “It’ll be their last game at home as Phoenix players, and I want them to have a proper send-off.”

Despite speculation about prioritizing future squad members, Italiano was adamant about honoring the departing duo’s contributions.

Youth on the Rise

Fans may also get a glimpse of the next generation of Phoenix talent. Teenage prospects Gabriel Sloane-Rodrigues (17) and Luke Brooke-Smith (16) are expected to feature.

Sloane-Rodrigues, a standout from the club’s academy ranks, is in line for his first senior appearance. While Italiano didn’t confirm if he would start, he emphasized the importance of rewarding strong academy performances.

Brooke-Smith, who impressed off the bench in last week’s 1-0 loss to Brisbane Roar, is expected to earn more minutes. “Luke gave us a nice dynamic,” Italiano said.

Veteran defender Tim Payne will miss the fixture due to injury.

Dominance Over Perth Continues

The Phoenix enter the contest riding an 11-match unbeaten streak against Perth Glory. With the Premier’s Plate narrowly out of reach after Auckland FC’s dominant run, Wellington will look to build momentum heading into the finals.

Fixture Details:
Wellington Phoenix vs Perth Glory
New Kick-off: 5 p.m. NZT, Sunday, May 5
Venue: Sky Stadium, Wellington