Nix eye Auckland return
Talay happy to play more often at Eden Park after two wins from two at the venue
Wellington Phoenix coach Ufuk Talay wants to play more games in Auckland, after their 100 per cent record at Eden Park this season.
Saturday’s vital 1-0 victory over Melbourne City, in front of a vocal crowd of more than 15,000, completed the quinella for the Phoenix up north, after they beat the Wanderers there in November.
The Phoenix have had only one gate exceeding 9000 in the capital this season, but Auckland’s much larger population base changes the equation. Talay is a fan of playing matches on the bigger stage, but acknowledges it’s a tricky balance.
“That’s a tough one, said Talay. “It comes down to marketing and all that type of thing. But for me, we had two games here, two wins. I’m happy to come back here next week if you want, and play the game here again.”
His last comment was made in jest but there is no doubt the Phoenix were impressed with the turnout and atmosphere created inside a cavernous Eden Park.
“We enjoy coming out here. The fans have been great, very vocal, we get great support when we come up to Auckland. It’s our home away from home and we will look at the fixtures for next season and how we can fit it in again.”
It’s possible the Phoenix will look at three games in Auckland next season but there is much to factor into the equation.
Saturday’s game was another positive step for Talay’s team, who are developing into arguably the most complete Phoenix outfit in the club’s 13-year history.
It was telling that second-placed Melbourne City, full of attacking weapons, came to Eden Park with a restricted game plan.
During the first half, they were content to soak up pressure and play on the counter-attack, changing their approach only after falling behind to David Ball’s 58th-minute goal.
“Teams are starting to show respect for Wellington Phoenix because we are playing a certain brand of football and we can pick them off,” said Talay. “We can play through them, go around them, or go over the top of them. Teams are working out the way we play and trying to nullify what we do. It shows signs we are progressing in the right way . . . but are we there yet? I don’t think so.”
Former Norwich City striker Gary Hooper had a strong 90 minutes, playing the decisive pass for Ball’s goal and providing a vital outlet, as he brought his teammates into play.
The Phoenix are fifth with a chance to extend their buffer on fellow playoff contenders Western United when they meet on Friday night. Talay is happy with progress but says there is a long way to go.
“We are playing well but not doing it consistently enough,” said Talay. “The players are trying to do what I ask them to and there are going to be mistakes and I’ll wear that as a coach. [But] we grow every game and I’d like to be at our peak in the finals.”
Talay was philosophical about the fixture change essentially forced on the club, which will see their round 21 clash with Sydney FC moved to March 18, meaning they will face three matches in eight days ahead of the international window.
“We had discussions with the FFA and tried to come to the best conclusion of getting that game played,” said Talay. “It’s a bit of compromise. Are we happy with it? No, but we have to find somewhere we can fit this game to play.”