No upcoming games
Future matches are yet to be scheduled
No upcoming games
Future matches are yet to be scheduled

Please update your browser

Unfortunately you cannot view this website on the current version of your browser. Please either update your browser or use an alternative browser.

Sep 17, 2014   |  11:12PM AET

Phoenix youngsters impress in Sydney friendly

Phoenix youngsters impress in Sydney friendly

www.stuff.co.nz | Alex Rufer earned the plaudits but an impressive contribution to the Wellington Phoenix’s A-League preparations in Sydney last night won’t alter Ernie Merrick’s preferred midfield combination

Alex Rufer earned the plaudits but an impressive contribution to the Wellington Phoenix’s A-League preparations in Sydney last night won’t alter Ernie Merrick’s preferred midfield combination.

The 18-year-old midfielder and fellow teenager Matthew Ridenton were standout performers among a reserve team lineup that settled for a 1-1 draw against Sydney United after taking a second-minute lead through Jason Hicks.

Rufer, who made his Phoenix debut in the dying stages of last season at Newcastle, will again find himself on the periphery – barring injury – when the Phoenix open their 2014-15 campaign against Perth Glory in Wellington on October 12.

Merrick and his assistant Chris Greenacre heaped praise on Rufer – and Ridenton, who made 13 appearances last season when injuries saw the 18-year-old’s progression fast-tracked.

“The two of them ran the show for our team,” said Merrick.

Article courtesy of www.stuff.co.nz. Click here to read the full article.