Corban Piper

Corban Piper quickly established himself as a Phoenix fan favourite following a successful trial with the club on the eve of the 2024-25 season.

The versatile defender, who played most outfield positions in his maiden season as a professional, joined the Phoenix on a scholarship contract from Birkenhead United where he was an integral member of the side which finished fourth in the 2024 Northern League.

Piper grew up on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, north of Auckland and played his junior football for Hibiscus Coast AFC before joining Birkenhead.

He spent 2023 playing for Wexford FC in the League of Ireland first division, making 35 appearances and helping Wexford to a fourth place finish.

His quick impact on the Nix was recognised with a two-year contract extension in April 2025 and the members’ under-23 player of the year award for the 2024-25 campaign.

> 2025-26 season

Corban Piper continued to endear himself to the Phoenix faithful while settling into a regular role as part of a striking duo with Ifeanyi Eze.

After coming off the bench for his first seven appearances of the season, he became a fixture in the XI, ending with 26 total games for the season.

He scored four goals and added four assists from fifteen starts during the season, regularly threatening from set pieces.

His strikes included a crucial one to secure a 2-0 comeback against Adelaide United, and the opener in a win against Perth Glory in the charity round Match for Good.