The Western Sydney Wanderers head to New Zealand with a chance at the Premiership out of reach, but still needing a win to see themselves finish in the top four.
Wellington’s wavering defence
Despite having bagged an incredible win over Western Sydney in the sides last meeting, the hosts will not enter Sunday’s clash with much momentum. While a fair share of the side’s failures have been put down to injuries and an inconsistent attack, it is the Phoenix’s back line that have let them down across the past month. In the last four games only their defence has leaked 10 goals, with their thumping at the hands of Victory last weekend accounting for four. This weekend against a Western Sydney side with an important finals position to play for, the Nix defenders will need to pull their weight or suffer a final defeat this campaign.
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Can the Wanderers notch a top four berth?
If Wellington’s defence has Western Sydney licking their lips, the home side’s record against Tony Popovic’s side in New Zealand will have them slightly concerned. Across the ditch the visitors are without a win in their last three trips, including an encounter in which they return to Parramatta without a goal. In fact, the Wanderers away form has them grabbing just two wins outside of NSW in their last 18 attempts. However; they boast a talented roster, who have proven countless times this season they can learn from past mistakes and thrive off the position of underdog – giving them every chance to buck the trend and grab a crucial win.
Ben Sigmund’s final game A-League game
Wellington veteran Ben Sigmund runs out on Sunday afternoon for his final A-League bow. The 35 year-old central-defender has decided to hang up his boots after notching 180 caps (starting all but six) across eight seasons, scoring seven goals including one in finals football, and managing over 15,000 minutes all of which were for the Phoenix – his only A-League side. Although Sigmund has never won an individual award at this level, the Kiwi has proven a stalwart and a player in which the side turn to for stability and experience. Making his final appearance for the ‘Nix, home fans will be hoping they can send him off with a win.
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