Wellington Phoenix 2
Brisbane Roar 1
Dylan macallister isn't a noted scorer but if he can produce a few more goals like the one he nabbed yesterday, his new employers the Phoenix will be happy.
Ricki Herbert signed Macallister as a target man to go with the hard-working Chris Greenacre and skilful Paul Ifill but yesterday he slammed in a half-volley from well outside the area to help his new side to a 2-1 pre-season win over Brisbane in Hamilton.
It was the best way to start his Phoenix career and just the sort of thing to convince Herbert of his worth, considering Macallister hadn't met his new coach until last Sunday because of the All Whites' World Cup campaign.
Ifill had earlier opened the scoring in the 14th minute, capitalising on an error from the Brisbane defence, before the Roar grabbed a late consolation through Matt McKay.
Wellington dominated the first half of an entertaining match but the game lost its shape in the second spell as both coaches rang the changes and players grew tired.
Herbert also ran his eye over James Musa, who came on in the second spell at left back, and triallists Sean Lovemore and Magno Vieira.
Lovemore, who is hoping to grab the last under-21 spot in the squad, looked lively and tested Brisbane goalkeeper Michael Theoklitos with a couple of long range efforts.
Herbert decided to rest All Whites Leo Bertos and Tony Lochhead and didn't risk midfielder Tim Brown, who will return to full training this week. Ben Sigmund played 90 minutes and goalkeeper Mark Paston continued his good form with a terrific left-handed save.
The Phoenix travel to take on Adelaide on Friday before hosting Argentine outfit Boca Juniors in Wellington on July 23.
