Teenage goalkeeper Brooke Neary helped Wellington Phoenix end their winless start to the season. She was given a surprise first start as part of coach Bev Priestman’s selection changes. The result came in Adelaide, according to The Post.
The goals
Phoenix beat Adelaide United 2-0. Tameka Yallop scored her first goal in Phoenix colours in the 15th minute. Indiah-Paige Riley sealed the win with a late strike in the 88th. It was 1-0 at halftime. The match was played at ServiceFM Stadium. Friends of Football NZ lists Riley’s goal at 89 minutes. The other reports give 88.
Neary gets the nod
Priestman had promised to pick on form after three games without a win. Even so, giving 19-year-old Neary her first A-League Women start was a major surprise. She was picked ahead of the experienced Fern Vic Esson. Priestman made four changes to her starting line-up.
Striker Milly Clegg, left wingback Kam Pickett and centre back Marisa van der Meer also had their first starts of the season. Priestman made three halftime substitutions, including bringing on Riley. It was the Phoenix’s second game in six days.
Adelaide had the ball
Adelaide United held 56.6% of possession. Shots on target finished level at 4-4, Adelaide United said. Neary made four saves. Adelaide goalkeeper Ilona Melegh was called on twice.
Adelaide had the strong wind at their backs in the second half as they chased an equaliser. Captain Adriana Taranto hit the post in the 65th minute after a cross evaded Neary. Stuff reported the details.
Priestman’s view
Priestman praised her players for the determination needed to secure the first win of the season. Friends of Football NZ headlined its story with her comment that the team had to “defend for our lives”. It said Neary justified her selection with several important saves. Priestman hopes the result will bring momentum as her squad’s availability improves.
Where the table stands
After four games, Phoenix have one win, one draw and two losses. They have four points, with four goals for and five against. Adelaide United have two points from four games, with no wins.
- Result: Adelaide United 0, Wellington Phoenix 2.
- Scorers: Tameka Yallop (15 minutes), Indiah-Paige Riley (88 minutes).
- Venue: ServiceFM Stadium, Adelaide.
Sources: The Post, Friends of Football NZ, Stuff, Adelaide United.
Leave a Reply