Wellington Phoenix are in for an anxious four-day wait to determine if they will secure the A-League Men premiership title. Despite their efforts in a commanding 3-0 victory over Macarthur at Sky Stadium on Saturday, maintaining their one-point lead at the league’s summit, the Phoenix are still awaiting confirmation of their first-place finish.
Kosta Barbarouses and Tim Payne netted within seven minutes of each other in the first half, securing a comfortable lead by halftime. Substitute Oskar Zawada later sealed the Phoenix’s 15th win of the season with an added-time penalty kick. However, their quest for silverware hinges on the outcome of Central Coast Mariners’ match against Newcastle Jets, which the Mariners won 3-1, keeping them in contention for the premiership.
Central Coast, the defending champions, have a game in hand against Adelaide United on Wednesday, and only need a draw to surpass the Phoenix in the standings. Originally scheduled for the previous Sunday, the Mariners’ match against Adelaide was postponed due to travel complications, as they were stranded in Kyrgyzstan after an AFC Cup match.
Phoenix coach Giancarlo Italiano expressed mixed feelings about Saturday’s outcome, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the title race. Despite the Phoenix’s strong performance against Macarthur, hopes for clinching the Premiers Plate rest on Central Coast faltering in their upcoming match.
The Phoenix showcased their attacking prowess against Macarthur, with David Ball and Nicholas Pennington making notable contributions. Barbarouses’ goal in the 22nd minute marked his 13th of the season, solidifying his status as the highest-scoring New Zealander in A-League history. Payne extended the lead in the 29th minute, converting a cross from Ben Old.
News of Newcastle’s equalizer against Central Coast provided a momentary boost to Phoenix fans, but Central Coast ultimately secured a victory with two late goals, diminishing hopes of a slip-up that could have benefited Wellington. Zawada’s late penalty offered a consolation goal for the Phoenix, but it was not enough to ensure premiership glory, leaving the outcome uncertain until Central Coast’s final match.
