The Wellington Phoenix have suffered a second heavy home defeat to begin their women's A-League campaign - beaten 4-1 by Western United.
Wellington Phoenix's Marisa Van Der Meer celebrates a goal against Western United. Photo: Photosport
It was a regrettably familiar scoreline for the Phoenix, who lost 4-1 in their opening match of the season against Melbourne City six days earlier -- their first game in front of supporters at Sky Stadium after being forced to play all of the games in their inaugural season in Australia.
While it was a relatively even first half, Western United were a class above after the interval to ensure they have won the first two games of what is their maiden season in the women's A-League.
The Phoenix, meanwhile, will be last on the table when they cross to Tasman to face defending champions Melbourne Victory next week.
A high point on Saturday came when Wellington defender Marisa van der Meer rose to level proceedings before halftime but the Sydney visitors scored three times in the final 20 minutes.
Import striker Hannah Keane scored two of them, capitalising on a Phoenix defence which showed cracks and struggled to retain possession as the match wore on.
The other goals went to fellow-Americans Jess McDonald and Sydney Cummings.
Injuries to van der Meer and midfielder Chloe Knott are other concerns for coach Natalie Lawrence, with play having been held up for several minutes late in the contest to provide treatment to Knott, following a head clash.
- RNZ