Phoenix striker Sabitra 'Samba' Bhandari faces a race against time to recover for Wellington's next match against Perth Glory. Photo: Masanori Udagawa
The Wellington Phoenix women are closely monitoring the fitness of Nepal international Sabitra 'Samba' Bhandari after an injury scare in Melbourne.
Bhandari limped off the field during Wellington's 1-0 A-League loss to Melbourne City yesterday in the Phoenix's first match on the road in their A-League season.
Wellington's import striker returned from a knee injury to the starting XI.
Bhandari's comeback however was short-lived as she went down clutching her lower leg in the 58th minute.
She was assisted off the field with an apparent lower leg problem.
Wellington headed into the match brimming with confidence after beating heavyweight's Melbourne Victory last round.
The Phoenix held Melbourne City until the 86th minute when City captain Rebekah Stott unleashed the game-winning goal for the reigning premiers.
Phoenix coach Bev Priestman told media her side dominated in the box but was unable to break City's defence.
"I'm frustrated and I think the team are but this game can't define us. We did a very good job against a very good Melbourne City team and now we have to grow from this," she said.
"We have to put the ball in the back of the net and that's a different game."
The Wellington Phoenix will stay on the other side of the Tasman to prepare for Friday night's match against Perth Glory.
The Phoenix, sitting 8th on the standings after four games, will be looking to rebound from their first loss of the season.
The experienced Football Fern CJ Bott said she will continue to lead by example for Wellington after she was confirmed before the last match as the team's fulltime captain.
- RNZ
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