Storm Roux of the Mariners contests the ball with Nathan Burns of the Phoenix at Central Coast Stadium in Gosford, Australia. Photo: Getty ImagesHopes of a late A-League resurrection have quickly flamed out for the Wellington Phoenix. Six days after a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over the Perth Glory, the Phoenix have come crashing back down, falling 1-0 to the Central Coast Mariners in Gosford. The hosts had all the early running, forcing the Phoenix defence to scramble to clear their lines. It took half an hour for the Phoenix to have their first possession in the Mariners penalty area, as they struggled to keep possession in midfield, with Nathan Burns particularly sloppy on the counter-attack.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 23, 2018 21:00 UTC