Phoenix to take flight after exemption
The Wellington Phoenix are heading to Sydney this afternoon to attempt to complete their A-League season.
The team will have to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival amid the threat of the coronavirus, but after chief executive David Dome made it a “non-negotiable”, the Phoenix have received an exemption from Australian health officials to be able to train within the self-isolation window.
The A-League announced yesterday that “football may continue across Australia at the moment”, confirming all games will take place behind closed doors and that the
Phoenix and Melbourne Victory — who have to self-isolate due to being in New Zealand when the Australian measures were implemented — will have their next two matches postponed, and the majority of their remaining fixtures rescheduled.
Dome says the decision to travel to Sydney was not taken lightly.
“We have consulted with health professionals and Government bodies in Australia and New Zealand and taken all possible precautions to ensure those travelling are given the best protection possible.
“As things have continued to evolve rapidly, all options have been investigated and it became apparent that suspension of the A-League was never an option.”
All players and staff have elected to travel, though Dome says they were given the option of not travelling if they felt unsafe.
“The club recognises the impact that this will have on players and football operations’ families, and a number of support measures are being put in place to assist them.”
The Phoenix sit third on the table with six regular season matches remaining.