Mexican in standout showing for the Nix
What a difference a Mexican makes.
That will be the overwhelming sentiment of Wellington Phoenix fans, after watching the impact of new import Gael Sandoval in the 2-1 men’s A-League win over Western United in Wollongong on Friday night.
The 26-year-old changed the complexion of their attack, bringing the creativity and invention that has been sorely lacking.
Sandoval was dynamic, composed and clever, and his first-time finish from the edge of the area, after an intelligent Gary Hooper pass, gave the home side a vital 16th-minute lead.
Despite only being in Australia for a few weeks and recently catching Covid, Sandoval looked sharp and dynamic, while his presence alone created more space for his teammates, especially Hooper and Reno Piscopo.
Sandoval spent seven seasons in the top tier of Mexican football and showed the quality you would expect from a player developed in that fanatical football nation. But he also exhibited a willingness to work and track back.
Sandoval will have tougher tests, as Western United’s veteran squad allow more space in possession than other teams and hadn’t played since Boxing Day. But the initial signs are extremely promising.
“It’s always satisfying when a new player comes in and he’s influential and effective,” said Phoenix coach Ufuk Talay. “You can see he has a good touch on him. He understands the game and gets in good areas.”
Hooper was another standout, while young goalkeeper Alex Paulsen, 19, continues to impress, coming up with impressive pointblank saves in both halves.
Captain Alex Rufer also bounced back after recent struggles with a confident display, including a neat turn and slide run pass to release Hooper in the 35th minute, with the English striker producing a delightful angled finish.
The Phoenix were clinical, while Western United were profligate, failing to make the most of numerous promising opportunities.
It wasn’t a perfect performance but was something to build on, ahead of the FFA Cup semifinal against Melbourne Victory next Saturday.
“Winning brings you confidence so hopefully this lifts the boys and we play good in the Cup,” said Talay.
Wellington Phoenix 2 (Gael Sandoval 16, Gary Hooper 35)
Western United 1 (Steven Lustica 90+4). Halftime: 2-0.