Shane Smeltz of Sydney FC is fouled by Andrew Durante of the Phoenix. Photo / Getty Images
Maybe the Phoenix result at the weekend wasn't such a bad thing. Although everybody was hoping for a top-two finish and a grand final qualifier - which would have been huge - taking the high road through the play-offs could still work. And it's surely better to be facing Melbourne
City than defending champions Brisbane Roar, who have emerged as the dangerous wild card in the finals.
The Phoenix have definitely lost their mojo over the past six weeks; there is no lack of spirit or endeavour but Ernie Merrick's team don't appear to have the same confidence on attack or poise on defence. That's hard to regain on the training field but could happen with a solid 90 minutes and a few goals against Melbourne City on Sunday.
Auckland City ace it
It was a fitting finale to the Oceania Champions League, though it was a pity about the refereeing which was poor at times. A lot of credit has to go to Team Wellington, who had patchy form coming into the competition but rose to the occasion well in Fiji, aided by some judicious reinforcements from other ASB Premiership teams. Meanwhile, the Auckland City FC machine rolls on; a remarkable five consecutive OFC titles, a record that will surely never be matched as the Confederation gets more competitive with every year.
The Auckland side were always favourites once the match went to penalties, given their double success in Morocco under the format. Goalkeeper Tamati Williams was a standout for the Navy Blues - not conceding a goal for almost 500 minutes before the final.
