PHOENIX FC and the Hurricanes have much in common.
Not only are they our regional sports teams – in soccer and rugby – sharing the Westpac Stadium as their home turf, but both will face-off against Perth at the stadium this weekend.
The Hurricanes play their first home game of the Super 14 competition against Western Force on Saturday, and a day later Phoenix FC play Perth Glory FC in the A-League semi final match.
“It’s great for Wellington,” says Phoenix FC spokesperson John Mitchell. “Wellington is coming into itself with regards to sports. [This weekend] is going to be great. We will be backing the Hurricanes and we know the Hurricanes are right behind us to finish the business against Glory.”
Mitchell says, as the home of New Zealand’s only professional football club, Wellington should be proud of Tim Brown and the boys.
“For the first time we are gunning for a shot at the A-League title,” says Mitchell. “The fans have made it possible.”
The Phoenix 3-0 win against the Central Coast Mariners last week added to the Phoenix’ 17 home games unbeaten streak.
Mitchell says the guys had a few beers after the game to celebrate, but didn’t party too hard with the “big game” against Glory in their sights.
If the Phoenix beat Glory this weekend they will take on Newcastle or Gold Coast in week two of the semifinals before playing the loser of the top two teams – Melbourne and Sydney – for a final placing.
Hurricanes v Western Force, Westpac Stadium, 7.35pm, February 20.
Phoenix FC v Perth Glory, Westpac Stadium, 5pm, February 21.