Sorensen signing justified early
Goalkeeper Tando Velaphi was a revelation for City last season, endearing himself to the Melburnians with his shot-stopping exploits. Thus it was a surprise to some when former Stoke City gloveman Thomas Sorensen was signed out of the blue. Though fans did not doubt the quality of the experienced Dane, some believed that another area of the pitch could have been alternatively invested in. However, Sorensen went some way to validating John van ’t Schip’s decision to sign the 39-year-old, as Sorensen looked assured in net throughout and pulled-off a world class stop to deny substitute George Blackwood from point blank range in stoppage-time. Though Velaphi remains a City favourite, Sorensen will quickly earn similar plaudits if he maintains his form.
Wellington pondering what could have been
Captain Andrew Durante went down with a calf injury in the 27th minute, Roy Krishna fluffed a 47th minute penalty, they had 63% of possession, but ultimately lost 2-1 to last season’s wooden spooners. It is safe to say not much more could have gone wrong for Wellington, as the Jets punished their inability to convert their chances. Krishna’s penalty miss was poor and it would prove costly as visitors were efficient in counter-punching, with the Phoenix defence going to sleep for the winner much as they did for the opener. Ernie Merrick would have pencilled this fixture in as a likely victory and instead his side’s opening weekend was deflated after a frustrating loss to a plucky Jets side.
Revitalised Carney ignites Jets
Former Socceroo David Carney was a forlorn figure in 2014-15, with then manager Phil Stubbins banishing him from the first team squad. Under new coach Scott Miller, however, the 31-year-old appeared a rejuvenated figure, playing with passion throughout yesterday’s match and showcasing the talent that earned him 48 caps for Australia. Carney nodded in a 30th minute header and produced a delightful pass to set up debutant Milos Trifunovic for the winning goal. He was also shown a yellow card and was in the thick of the action, but Miller would be pleased with the efforts of the experienced Jets stalwart, who could play a major role in a Novocastrian revival this campaign.
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