The Wellington Phoenix will be without Emma Main for their maiden Ninja A-League finals campaign.
The experienced forward has a chronic lumbar spine injury, which saw her sit out the last four matches of the Phoenix’s record-breaking regular season.
After seeking specialist medical advice, Main, in consultation with the club, has made the decision to rehab her back and focus on being fully fit for the 2026-27 A-League.
It means she will miss the Nix’s two legged semi-final and a potential grand final next month.
Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman is disappointed for Main.
“Emma is a proud Wellingtonian and for her to miss the team’s historic first ever semi-final is devastating,” Priestman said.
“She has been a huge part of this team’s journey this season and like every player that has been ruled out with injury they’re still a huge part of this team moving forward.
“From what I’ve seen from Emma this season, through not only this injury but a couple of injuries/illnesses, she has an incredible team first mindset.
“She works diligently every day to be the best version that she can and that’s the type of player we want at this club, not only now but also in the future.
“I know Emma will work hard in the off-season and recover from this injury, and I’m excited to have her back next season.”
Main was limited to 12 appearances this campaign but in the process became the first Wellingtonian to play 50 A-League games for the Phoenix women.
She scored a brace in the team’s 3-0 win over Western Sydney Wanderers in December to draw her level with Grace Jale and Mariana Speckmaier as the women’s all-time leading goalscorer.
The club wishes Emma Main all the best with her recovery and looks forward to seeing her back in Phoenix colours for the start of pre-season training later this year.
