Match Summary
Wellington Phoenix defeated Western United 2:0. The match was played in A-League 2023. Goals were scored by N. Pennington 3′, J. Donachie 47′ (o.g.). 3 yellow cards were shown. Wellington Phoenix had 53% possession while Western United held 47%. Wellington Phoenix had 10 shots (4 on target) compared to 9 (2 on target) for Western United. Wellington Phoenix made 3 substitutions, Western United made 5.
Match Events
Key match events between Wellington Phoenix and Western United — 2 goals and 3 cards recorded during the match.
assist: B. Kraev
Own Goal
Match Statistics
Wellington Phoenix had 53% possession against Western United's 47%. Wellington Phoenix registered 10 shots (4 on target) while Western United managed 9 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 3–5. Fouls committed: 11–13.
Lineups
Wellington Phoenix lined up in a 4-3-2-1 formation under G. Italiano, while Western United deployed a 4-4-2 under J. Aloisi.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Wellington Phoenix is 6.82, compared to 7.27 for Western United. 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. Wellington Phoenix's highest-rated starter is A. Rufer (7.21), while Western United's best-rated player is A. Thurgate (7.27).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Wellington Phoenix have contributed 3 goals and 4 assists this season, led by A. Rufer (2G). Western United's starters account for 0 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by —. Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Wellington Phoenix deploy 4 defenders rated 6.63 on average, against Western United's 4-man backline averaging —. 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
Wellington Phoenix field 5 midfielders averaging 7.21, versus Western United's 4 rated 7.27. 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
Wellington Phoenix start 1 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 2 for Western United 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 44% for Wellington Phoenix and 75% for Western United. 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
Wellington Phoenix's starters have collected 8 yellow cards this season, compared to 0 for Western United. 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 Wellington Phoenix's starting XI is 28.8 (youngest: L. Kelly-Heald (20), oldest: K. Barbarouses (35)), while Western United average 25.0 (youngest: A. Thurgate (25), oldest: A. Thurgate (25)). 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
Wellington Phoenix's starters average 11 league appearances each, versus 1 for Western United. 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
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Wellington Phoenix have recorded 0 wins, 2 draws and 4 defeats. Western United show 0 wins, 0 draws and 1 losses from their last 1 outings.
Wellington Phoenix
Western United
API data: 15 Mar 2026