Needing a draw, at least, to make the A-League play-offs does not mean the Wellington Phoenix will go into their last regular fixture with a defensive mentality, says goalkeeper Oli Sail.
But if the circumstances require it in Saturday’s match against bottom-placed Macarthur, “shutting up shop” might become an option, he says.
“It’s an aspect of our game which we haven’t used a whole lot this season,” he told a media briefing.
“We’ve probably only seen it on two or three occasions — I think back to the two Sydney FC victories we had where we’ve kind of shut up shop and potentially, Brisbane Roar, away, as well.
“We haven’t done it a whole lot this season so whether we use it this weekend to to prepare ourselves for deep in finals games or if it’s necessary this weekend to get that point, then that’ll be applied.
“But I think a real positive statement from us is important this weekend as well.”
In the 13-minute briefing, Sail addressed a number of issues including:
- His thoughts on why the Phoenix lost 4- 0 to Western Sydney Wanderers last weekend.
- The impact on recent results of departing personnel from the club.
- Team morale and confidence.
- The delay in then naming of a new All Whites head coach.
READ MORE: Phoenix can seal play-off spot with draw or better in final A-League fixture >>>>
Fixtures
Round 26 of the isuzu-UTE men’s A-League
Games to be played Friday April 28, 2023
Adelaide United v Central Coast Mariners
Kick-off 9.45pm (NZT)
Melbourne City v Western Sydney Wanderers
Kick-off 9.45pm (NZT)
Games to be played on Saturday April 29, 2023
Macarthur v Wellington Phoenix
Kick-off 7pm (NZT)
Sydney v Newcastle Jets
Kick-off 7pm (NZT)
Melbourne Victory v Brisbane Roar
Kick-off 9.45pm (NZT)
Game to be played on Sunday April 30, 2023
Perth Glory v Western United
Kick-off 12am (NZT)