Match Summary
Wellington Phoenix defeated Western United 1:0. The match was played in A-League 2023. Goals were scored by B. Old 79′. 5 yellow cards were shown. Western United had 51% possession while Wellington Phoenix held 49%. Western United had 20 shots (6 on target) compared to 15 (3 on target) for Wellington Phoenix. Western United made 4 substitutions, Wellington Phoenix made 4. VAR was involved: Goal confirmed (Benjamin Old 80′).
Match Events
Key match events between Western United and Wellington Phoenix — 1 goals and 5 cards recorded during the match.
assist: K. Barbarouses
Match Statistics
Western United had 51% possession against Wellington Phoenix's 49%. Western United registered 20 shots (6 on target) while Wellington Phoenix managed 15 (3 on target). Corner kicks: 10–6. Fouls committed: 11–11.
Lineups
Western United lined up in a 4-4-2 formation under J. Aloisi, while Wellington Phoenix deployed a 4-2-2-2 under G. Italiano.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Western United is 7.27, compared to 6.82 for Wellington Phoenix. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Western United's highest-rated starter is A. Thurgate (7.27), while Wellington Phoenix's best-rated player is A. Rufer (7.21).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Western United have contributed 0 goals and 0 assists this season, led by —. Wellington Phoenix's starters account for 3 goals and 4 assists, spearheaded by A. Rufer (2G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Western United deploy 4 defenders rated — on average, against Wellington Phoenix's 4-man backline averaging 6.63. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Western United field 4 midfielders averaging 7.27, versus Wellington Phoenix's 4 rated 7.21. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Western United start 2 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 2 for Wellington Phoenix averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 75% for Western United and 44% for Wellington Phoenix. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Western United's starters have collected 0 yellow cards this season, compared to 8 for Wellington Phoenix. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Western United's starting XI is 30.0 (youngest: A. Thurgate (25), oldest: T. Imai (35)), while Wellington Phoenix average 28.8 (youngest: L. Kelly-Heald (20), oldest: K. Barbarouses (35)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Western United's starters average 1 league appearances each, versus 11 for Wellington Phoenix. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 1 matches, Western United have recorded 0 wins, 0 draws and 1 defeats. Wellington Phoenix show 0 wins, 2 draws and 4 losses from their last 6 outings.
Western United
Wellington Phoenix
API data: 15 Mar 2026