Australia NewsPhoenix Final On TV? |
EXCLUSIVE: Wellington officials will today discuss with Sky NZ the possibility of broadcasting Wednesday night's Pre-Season Cup Final between Phoenix and Melbourne Victory from Westpac Stadium.
Sky NZ broadcast all Phoenix home matches in the A-League and that coverage is used by Fox Sports in Australia.However, this is the first time Phoenix - or any New Zealand A-League franchise - is in the frame for a trophy and interest in the game is surging ahead of Wednesday night.
If Sky NZ does go ahead with a broadcast, it's possible Fox Sports could pick the game up for Aussie viewers, although perhaps not live.
Officials are hoping for a crowd of around 8-10,000 for the mid-week final with a possibility that children may be allowed to enter Westpac Stadium for free.
Despite heavy weather lately, the Westpac Stadium surface is said to be in reasonable condition. A rugby game was played there last Friday night but the ground will have had a full five days to recover.
Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert joked after his side's impressive 3-2 victory over Sydney on Saturday in Wollongong that the club does not have a trophy cabinet.
"The country's never got even remotely close to a final so I think we were up for it [against Sydney]. We're very proud, it's good for the fans and a chance to see Melbourne and another tough game for us," he said.
And Phoenix may include young Victorian trialist Manny Muscat from VPL club Green Gully.
The 23-year-old had an assured match at left back against Sydney and could be a handy pick-up particularly with Tony Lochhead still training with Middlesbrough in England.
"He didn't let too many people down," said Herbert of the potential replacement for the All-White.
"But from a respect point of view there is some dialogue with his club we'll undertake but hopefully there is another player from Green Gully going into the A-League."
Wellington fans are gearing up for what could be a special night in the history of the club. au.fourfourtwo.com caught up with Phoenix supporters group Yellow Fever after the victory in Wollongong.
"It's awesome. It's been a blast. It's great for New Zealand football. The team came out and showed what they are capable of. There were a few defensive worries but they played as a team," said Sean.
"It's a great kick off to the 2008 season. This is what our season is going to be about - the fighting spirit of the Phoenix," added Aaron.
Have YOUR say - What do you think about "Phoenix Final On TV?"? Tell us NOW in the comment section below.
Have you got a scoop? Tell us about it and you could be the first to break the news on FourFourTwo.
