The Wellington Phoenix are returning to Palmerston North after a lengthy absence to be part of a major event in the city.
The Phoenix men will play their round 14 Isuzu UTE A-League match against Perth Glory at Central Energy Trust Arena on Saturday January 28 before UB40 lead singer Ali Campbell performs next door at Fly Palmy Arena.
Photo: Central Energy Trust Arena … venue for Phoenix game on January 28.
The match will kick-off at the family-friendly time of 3pm, with Campbell, the voice of international hits like Red Red Wine and Don’t Break My Heart, to take to the stage later in the evening after support from Kiwi favourites The Feelers and the legendary Sir Dave Dobbyn.
The Phoenix last took a match to Manawatū in December 2009, when they hosted Sydney FC.
Dome: ‘It’s great to be part of such a major event’
General manager David Dome has thanked the team at Palmy Venues for stepping up to host the Nix.
“It’s been incredibly challenging finding venues for both teams this summer with so many events happening across Aotearoa,” Dome said.
“Finding a suitable ground for the men’s match against Perth has been particularly difficult so I’m relieved Palmy Venues can host us.
“It’s great that the club can be a part of such a major event in Palmerston North too. We’re all looking forward to returning to Manawatū.”
Mayor Grant Smith: ‘All fans will be welcome’
Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith says it’s an honour to host the Phoenix again after 13 years.
“Our recently upgraded Central Energy Trust Arena is a world-class regional sporting facility that is geared up to host significant events just like this,” Smith said.
“It will be the perfect venue to host football fans from around the wider Central New Zealand region of not only Manawatū, but Whanganui, Hawke’s Bay and Taranaki.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone and showcasing what a great city Palmerston North is for visiting, and for events.”
The match finalises the men’s home schedule for the 2022-23 season.
Four of their 13 home matches have already been played at Sky Stadium, with a further five games to come in the capital, all of which will be double-headers with the Phoenix women.
The men will also play two matches at Eden Park in March and April.
They will return from the three-week FIFA World Cup break with a match against Western Sydney Wanderers in Wollongong on Saturday night.
READ MORE: Updated fixture list for the Wellington Phoenix men’s A-League season >>>>
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