The Wellington Phoenix play their 100th Hyundai A-League game on Saturday February 5 and the club’s first skipper, Ross Aloisi, will be on hand for the milestone.
The Wellington Phoenix play their 100th Hyundai A-League game on Saturday February 5 and the club-s first skipper, Ross Aloisi, will be on hand for the milestone.
Aloisi is these days on the Fox Sports commentating team and, as luck would have it, he has been assigned sideline duties for the game against Adelaide United which will be played in his home city.
“That is fantastic. It will be great to be part of it,” Aloisi said when told of the milestone.
There were many sceptics when Wellington businessman Terry Serepisos took over the franchise relinquished by the underperforming New Zealand Knights on March 19, 2007, but Aloisi wasn-t among them.
“I knew that with Ricki Herbert as coach the Phoenix would be alright on the field, and when I got to know Terry as well I was always confident the club would be successful.
“To reach 100 games is great, but I-m sure there will be a lot more milestones to come.”
Aloisi spent only one season with the Phoenix before injury curtailed his career, but he has nothing but good memories of his time in New Zealand-s capital.
“It was an amazing time in my life,” he said.
“I love the city, the club and the people of Wellington, and really do miss the place.
“I have some fantastic memories from my time with the Phoenix and one of the highlights was playing against LA Galaxy and David Beckham.
“Not only did I get Becks- shirt I also got a hug from the man himself!”
Adelaide United vs Wellington Phoenix
Saturday February 5
Hindmarsh Stadium
Kick off 6.30pm (local) 9pm (NZT)
