Wellington Phoenix women’s A-League match against Adelaide United, Digi Mart USA News (Adelaide, Australia): Wellington Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman has challenged her players to examine their performances as they prepare to face Adelaide United in Friday’s women’s A-League match.
The Phoenix travel to ServiceFM Stadium still searching for their first win of the season after three unsuccessful attempts. Priestman was particularly disappointed with last weekend’s 2-0 defeat to Perth Glory, believing her side had fallen short of their defensive standards.
“It wasn’t a great game; we have to acknowledge that,” Priestman told the media. “We didn’t look defensively solid like we do.
We just allowed way too much for them going forwards. We didn’t face anything that we didn’t prepare for.”
Rather than concentrating on Adelaide, Priestman has spent the week encouraging her players to reflect on their own performances. “We’ve really looked internal between the last game and this game,” she said.
“When you think about leadership, sometimes it’s looking in the mirror.”
“We’ve done some deep digging in terms of who we want to be, what we want to represent,” Priestman added. “That’s what we spent our time doing the last couple of days; it’s very much been about us.”
The Phoenix could welcome back American striker Makala Woods, who suffered an ankle injury against Perth Glory. “Makala had a scan, she’s all clear from that perspective,” Priestman said.
“Now it’s just how she responds on the pitch.”
Adelaide head coach Theo Tsiounis is also demanding improvements after identifying encouraging passages in his team’s recent performance against Central Coast Mariners. However, he believes his young squad must sustain those performances for longer periods.
Tsiounis expects a difficult encounter against the Phoenix, despite their winless start. “Wellington have a fantastic side on paper.
They’ve strengthened the squad from last season. They’re a very mobile and physical side.”
He wants Adelaide to improve their attacking execution while remaining committed to developing their young players. The Reds could welcome back Maeve Nicholas following her return from the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, while Tessa Salvestrin is working towards increased playing time.
Most recent meeting: Adelaide United 0, Wellington Phoenix 2. All-time A-League head-to-head: Phoenix 5 wins, Adelaide 6 wins, and 0 draws.
The game will be broadcast live in New Zealand on Sky Sport 2 and in Australia on Paramount+. Adelaide United v Wellington Phoenix, ServiceFM Stadium, Adelaide, 9pm (NZT).
