The Phoenix fell apart two seasons ago when they lost Riera to injury in the second half of the season. They can't afford to letthat happen again, even if it is probably just a suspension for one game. They are a more complete team than they were in Ernie Merrick's first season, but their lack of depth is beginning to hurt. The game against Central Coast Mariners on New Year's Eve now looks a daunting prospect, even if the Mariners' are rooted to the bottom of the table. But their fans shouldn't lose heart; the 3-0 scoreline yesterday flattered the home side, with Manny Muscat and Glen Moss producing errors we won't see again this season.
Danaskos makes solid start
Troy Danaskos showed promise in his first game for the Phoenix, coming in for the suspended Tom Doyle. It wasn't an easy situation to make your debut in - part of a makeshift back line and at a ground where the Phoenix have traditionally struggled. But for the most part Dakotas coped with the attacking threats heading his way and got forward well on a few occasions. The 24-year-old did enough to show he will offer serious competition to Doyle over the rest of the season.
Coopers Stadium is a terrific place for football, and the Adelaide fans sat close to the action create a great atmosphere. It makes for an intimidating venue and partly explains why the Phoenix have struggled at the ground over the years. The home fans also managed to sway the match officials on several occasions, with a series of key decisions going against the visitors. It's always easy to blame the referee and his assistants when things are going against you, but some of the decisions yesterday were particularly hard to understand.
