The Nix beat Melbourne City 1-0 on Saturday night as they bounced back from a 4-2 loss against Perth Glory. But it wasn’t always plain sailing for the Kiwi side, who took the show to Auckland for the second time this season.
David Ball scored the only goal of the game and capped off a strong second 45 from Wellington - who were much improved after the break.
Improved
“I thought in the first half we were a bit sloppy on the ball,” said Talay. “We gave away some cheap possession which they created opportunities from that.
“Overall, especially in the second half, we got our game going and we started to play a really good passing game and a great goal.”
Melbourne are a fine attacking unit but do have a propensity for letting them in, and the Phoenix were able to capitalise on that. Gary Hooper started after scoring two as a substitute against the Glory and Talay was very happy with his performance, despite the lack of a goal.
The head coach continued: “I think that’s one of Hoops’ best games since he came to the Phoenix. You can see why hes played in the Premier League.”
Quality Player
Hooper is an experienced figure and has featured in the British top flight as well as for Celtic in the Scottish Premier League. He knows how to bring others into the game, while his finishing record across his career indicates a forward who should be able to bang them in regularly in the A-League.
And it was his ability to play for the team that caught his gaffer’s eye. “He was exceptional, he brought players into the game and assisted with the goal and held the ball up for us,” explained Talay.
Despite the win, the Phoenix have dropped down to fifth after Adelaide United leapfrogged the Nix on goal difference. But, they do have a game in hand over City who are second. Western United are up next and Talay will be hoping his squad learns the lessons from this game and put in a 90 minute performance.