The Wellington Phoenix will be looking for a bit of history to help out when they run out to play Adelaide United at Christchurch's AMI Stadium tomorrow.
In 10 Hyundai A-League matches with the South Australians, the Phoenix have won only once. That win, 1-0, was at the same groundlast season. But, as coach Ricki Herbert points out, it was a vastly different situation a year ago.
"They were in last place and we were on a bit of a run," said Herbert. "Some people say that it is not really a home game but we accept it for what it is. We could have 15,000 there, which will be the biggest crowd of the weekend." The 19,000 who turned up last season was the Phoenix' biggest regular season home crowd.
Herbert admits the testing travel schedule is making life tough for his players.
"We flew back from Sydney on Thursday had [yesterday] off and fly to Christchurch [today]. We will have a light run and a stretch and sign a few autographs," said Herbert. "It is not ideal but we can't ask too much of the players."
Herbert is taking 17 players south with 15 to strip for the game.
Leo Bertos, who missed the midweek 3-1 loss to Sydney FC with a slight injury, joins the 16 who went to Sydney and is likely to play.
Teenage defender James Musa is in line for a second start after missing out on Wednesday night. "James was sick and could not have played," said Herbert. "It was one those 24-hours bugs." Herbert said of the 17 players he will have in Christchurch, two of Musa, Troy Hearfield and Dylan MacAllister were likely to miss out.
Young Marcos Rojas who impressed in the 35min he played in the Sydney rain is likely to again get game time but Herbert admitted he is not ready to play 90min.
Adelaide are in second place with 34 points from 17 games. The Phoenix are seventh with 18 points from 19 games.
Wellington Phoenix v Adelaide United AMI Stadium, Christchurch
Tomorrow, 5pm
Referee: Jarred Gillett
