The Phoenix welcome 2014/15 Hyundai A-League Champions Melbourne Victory to QBE Stadium, Albany on Saturday 5 December.
With the #savethenix campaign a huge part of the club drawing over 13,000 fans to Westpac Stadium last Friday night, the Phoenix’ next home against Melbourne Victory at QBE Stadium in Albany on December 5 will be the next game to come under scrutiny.
With past crowds of between 11,000 and 20,000 in Auckland, the Phoenix are looking at getting back to Auckland and pulling in another big crowd to help retain its place in the A-League.
Wellington Phoenix general manager David Dome said Auckland is a crucial part of the Phoenix’ overall proposition back to Football Federation Australia.
‘’The FFA are very interested to see what happens at our next match in Auckland,” Dome said.
“They have stated that they want to see the Phoenix have a national presence – but it only makes sense if the numbers stack up and improve the A-League’s metrics.
“Being New Zealand’s largest metropolitan area, Auckland is positioned to do that and in the past we have got very good crowds there.”
Dome said that the good crowd against Adelaide United last Friday has certainly helped the Phoenix’ and it’s discussions with Football Federation Australia, but the one-off result will not be enough.
‘’There are still some in Australia questioning our place in the A-League,” Dome said.
“13,654 was a terrific result for the club both on and off the pitch, but it doesn’t mean all of a sudden we can relax.
“We have to continue to work hard to keep our numbers up.”
Dome said the good attendance was great for the players.
“The players really responded to the big crowd with a display that quite rightly has been described as one of the best in the history of the club.
“End to end excitement, plenty of goals including one that could be in line for goal of the season from Roly Bonevacia and a great 4-2 win.
‘’Whether you were at the game or at home watching on Sky, it was a magnificent game by the players.
‘’Auckland gets to see Melbourne Victory – one of the most exciting teams in the A-League, home of ex-Phoenix player and All White Kosta Barbarouses and of course it is Head Coach Ernie Merrick’s old club.
“It’s a game of epic proportions and one we’re all looking forward to’’
At a Glance
Wellington Phoenix v Melbourne Victory
Saturday December 5, 7.15pm.
QBE Stadium, Albany.
Tickets from Ticketmaster
http://www.ticketmaster.co.nz/Wellington-Phoenix-tickets/artist/1135173?tm_link=tm_sports_f3
