Auckland FC beat Nix in A-League derby
- Dave Worsley
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
The A-League derby match between Auckland FC and the Phoenix lived up to its hype as the visitors snatched a 2-1 win in Wellington.
It was a bright start for Auckland with a goal after just 28 seconds as Jesse Randall's split the Phoenix high-line, before his low cross found Sam Cosgrove, who finished from close range.
LATEST HEADLINES:
Wellington hit back quickly through their own import striker, Ifeanyi Eze. The Nigerian jumped on a loose Jake Brimmer pass to curl home a subuerb equaliser from long range
Auckland restored their lead, when Randall raced behind the defence once more, producing a hip over oncoming keeper Josh Oluwayemi.
Second half drama then ensued as the visitors were forced to hold on with just nine players.
Initially Auckland centreback Dan Hall, hauled down substitute Corban Piper, denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. Then Logan Rogerson's reckless lunge saw him join Hall in the sheds as the niggle continued in the match.
For all Wellington's pressure, Auckland - who also lost their captain for the night, Jake Brimmer, to a dislocated shoulder - were not seriously troubled.
Phoenix captain Alex Rufer had a couple of long-range efforts, Lukas Kelly-Heald saw an effort deflected clear and youngster Luke Brooke-Smith could only head wide late, as the nine minutes of added time elapsed.
Auckland go into the international break top the table, with Brisbane Roar in two weeks, while the Phoenix will hope to put this result behind them at home to Macarthur.