A Long-Range Heartbreaker: Jets Claim 1-0 Victory

The Wellington Phoenix suffered their third consecutive loss in the Ninja A-League, falling 1-0 to the Newcastle Jets at Maitland Regional Sportsground. A 70th-minute wonder goal by Newcastle captain Cassidy Davis proved the difference, leaving the Phoenix rooted to the bottom of the table without a point this season.

Cassidy Davis’ Audacious Strike

In a game marked by oppressive 31-degree heat and frequent hydration breaks, Davis delivered a stunning long-range shot from near the sideline that caught Phoenix goalkeeper Carolina Vilão off guard. The strike sailed into the net, giving the Jets the decisive goal.

Phoenix head coach Paul Temple expressed his frustration with the nature of such goals in the league.
“I hate those goals in this league, to be honest. There’s one or two every week—just potshots from anywhere,” he said.
Despite the setback, Temple admitted the goal was well-struck and lamented the lack of defensive pressure leading to the decisive moment.

Injury Adds to Phoenix Woes

Adding insult to injury, Wellington captain Annalie Longo was taken off the field in an ambulance during stoppage time after suffering a serious head injury. Temple confirmed the likelihood of a facial fracture around her eye socket, making her participation in Friday’s Unite Round match against Adelaide United highly unlikely.
“It’s not good. She’s in a bad way,” Temple said.

MAITLAND, AUSTRALIA – NOVEMBER 17: Annalie Longo of the Phoenix is attended to by team doctor and staff during the round three A-League Women’s match between Newcastle Jets and Wellington Phoenix at Maitland Regional Sportsground, on November 17, 2024, in Maitland, Australia. (Photo by Scott Gardiner/Getty Images)

Match Analysis: Opportunities Missed

Both teams struggled to create clear chances in the first half, with Carolina Vilão showcasing her shot-stopping prowess to deny the Jets on multiple occasions. The Phoenix briefly thought they had broken the deadlock in the second half when Emma Main converted a cross from Olivia Fergusson, but the goal was ruled offside.

The Jets capitalized on their possession with Davis’ remarkable goal, and while Wellington created a few half-chances afterward, they failed to find an equalizer. Vilão continued her strong performance by denying a late free-kick attempt, keeping the deficit to one.

Looking Ahead

With their captain sidelined and three straight losses, the Phoenix face a steep challenge in their upcoming match against Adelaide United. Their hopes of turning the season around rest on regrouping during their week in New South Wales.