After missing the A-League playoffs for the past two seasons, the Phoenix will aim to get back among the title contenders, starting with a home win over Perth Glory today. Here are four areas to keep an eye on.
Deep impact
The Phoenix have greater depth than ever before, meaningplayers like Vince Lia, Kenny Cunningham, Louis Fenton and Tyler Boyd - all of whom saw regular game time last season - will need to force the issue from the bench in this campaign. Such internal competition is a huge positive and will only lift the standards, plus provide vital injury cover. However, there remain concerns over the backline. Only Thomas Doyle has been added to a defensive unit that conceded a league-high 51 goals last season, and the ongoing fitness of Andrew Durante and Ben Sigmund will be vital.
Chipping in
For all their frustrations and foibles, Stein Huysegems and Carlos Hernandez found the net 16 times between them last year. Where will those goals come from this season? There's talk of everyone 'chipping in' the way Tim Brown used to, especially the midfielders such as Michael McGlinchey, Alex Rodriguez and Cunningham, but it's always dangerous to rely on such a strategy. Almost every successful A-League team has been built around a striker who grabs 10-15 goals a season - it's hard to see either Jeremy Brockie or Boyd adding such value.
Rarely in the history of the club has there been so much excitement about off-season signings but the Phoenix appear to have done some good business over the winter. Already dubbed the famous five, McGlinchey, Rodriguez, Roly Bonevacia, Nathan Burns and Doyle are all expected to play significant roles this season.
The move to a temporary stadium at the Hutt Recreation Ground for three games during February and March because of the Cricket World Cup could be a glimpse into the future. The club are keen to test the market and the 14,000 capacity at the Hutt should produce a wonderful atmosphere, appreciated by both fans and players.
After missing the A-League playoffs for the past two seasons, the Phoenix will aim to get back among the title contenders, starting with a home win over Perth Glory today.
Coach Ernie Merrick has transformed the playing staff and style in a tangible overhaul of everything football at the Wellington club. Now that transformation needs to be translated into positive results. The owners have great patience - they are there for the long haul - but will need to see a tangible upswing before they commit to a contract extension for the affable Scot.
