Wellington Phoenix denied again

Being their first game at home in Wellington since the start of the season the Phoenix showcased a team against the Wanderers who finally wanted - and deserved - to win.

After drawing one all the last time these two teams clashed the Phoenix carried the all-important home advantage which to some extent did seem to help.

It was a different Phoenix side on display than that from previous weeks, with the 'Nix pulling together and finally playing a high intensity match for the full 90 minutes.

This meant the dreaded lull which has seen them lose matches all season did not rear its ugly head, and hopefully it never will ever again. 

The biggest improvement this week by far was seen through Kenny Cunningham, who came out all guns blazing.

Cunningham this week had a much higher intensity and played his best game all season, with last week's goal clearly sparking a fire inside him. His fancy footwork and great passing meant he was a key figure in the match, though sadly none of his goal opportunities converted this week. 

These shots on goal continued right until the final whistle, with the Phoenix ultimately having more chances than the Wanderers but still not managing to find the net.

The Phoenix linked well in this match with great short passing which unfortunately diminished when Hernandez was taken off with the hit and hope kicks then starting to sneak back into their play.

With plenty of improvements but still no win it leads you to question what the Phoenix have to do in order to get those three points. 

Coach Ernie Merrick said he thought the teams desperation for a goal did start to creep into the match.

“They must be feeling desperate to score goals [with a] lack of composure which you don’t see at training,”

This desperation will hopefully not come through in their next game against Perth Glory.

However with Hernandez possibly out injured and Manny Muscat suspended, the rest of the team will have to step up. Big time. With this being the team's fourth draw of the season and almost their longest winless streak a win is something they all know they need.

Wellington Phoenix: 1. Glen MOSS, 2. Manny MUSCAT, 0. Kenny CUNNINGHAM, 10. Stein HUYSEGEMS,  13. Albert RIERA, 16. Louis FENTON, 17. Vince LIA, 18.Ben SIGMUND, 19. Carlos HERNANDEZ 22. Andrew DURANTE,  25. Jason HICKS, 12. Tyler BOYD, 8. Paul IFILL, 5. Michael BOXALL

Western Sydney Wanderers: 1. Ante COVIC, 2. Shannon COLE  4. Nikolai TOPOR-STANLEY, 6. Michael BEAUCHAMP, 7, Labinot HALITI, 8.Mateo POLJAK, 10.Aaron MOOY, 12. Tahj MINNIECON, 17. Youssouf HERSI 18, Iacopo LA ROCCA 19.Mark BRIDGE 22. Dean HEFFERNAN