A rare winless weekend for the Wellington Phoenix academy.
The men’s reserves fought to earn a 0-0 draw away to Auckland United in a game played at breakneck pace.
Alby Kelly-Heald was particularly impressive between sticks on his return from a long-term injury.
In a rematch of the Kate Sheppard Cup final, the women’s reserves went down 4-1 to Auckland United, despite a brilliant solo goal from Ela Jerez.
And Amelie McClintock’s last minute equaliser saved a point for the U-18 women, who drew 1-1 with FC Tauranga Moana at Fraser Park.
On the international front, the U-17 Football Ferns began their World Cup with a 3-0 loss to powerhouses Japan.
Holly Robins, Freya Des Fountain, and Katie Pugh all started for New Zealand, with Kya Solomon and Natalie introduced from the bench.
The side was captained by Pia Vlok, who recently joined the Phoenix first team squad from Auckland United.
This weekend, the women’s reserves play Wellington United away on Friday night, with the men’s reserves hosting Miramar the next day.
Cover photo credit: Photomac/Cam McIntosh
