Soccer: Soft goals leave Herbert frustrated

Sydney's John Aloisi launches a header during last night's match against the Phoenix. Photo / Getty Images

A poor performance in a 0-2 loss to Sydney FC last night has left coach Ricki Herbert frustrated.

The Phoenix fought resolutely to stay in touch for 75 minutes but saw the game slip out of reach after conceding two goals in the space of four minutes.

Brendan Gan and John Aloisi struck in the 77th and 81st minutes respectively as the Phoenix ran out of puff with 15 minutes to go.

"We struggled to get going and get a foothold in the game," Herbert said.

"We were able to soak up the pressure for the most part and the defence was holding, and when you're away from home in this league, that's the stage where you look to carry that through and get at least a point. Unfortunately we couldn't do that."

The gamebreaker came when Gan sent a rocket of a header past debutant Phoenix goalkeeper Reece Crowther.

Four minutes later, as the Phoenix pushed up looking for the equaliser, Sydney FC were able to counter-attack.

With the Phoenix defence racing back, it was Aloisi who took advantage to nod a pinpoint cross past Crowther.

"We weren't good enough," said Herbert who was frustrated by the way his team conceded the opening goal.

" It is a concern that a player was allowed to get free in the box.

"We've worked hard on countering those situations and to give up a goal like that isn't good enough.

"From there we had to press up and you're always vulnerable when you're chasing and Sydney caught us on the counter."

The Phoenix lacked fluidity, particularly in midfield.

However, Herbert was pleased with the efforts of several players, notably striker Paul Ifill and Crowther, the 20-year-old keeper making his A-League debut in place of Mark Paston, who stayed in Wellington with his wife, Amy, for the birth of Jack, the couple's first child.

Herbert and the Phoenix now turn their attention to Friday night's match against Adelaide United in Wellington.

- NZPA