Wellington Phoenix

Last Season: 9th

This Season: 7th

A stuttering start to the season, which saw Wellington record just two wins in nine games, ultimately left the New Zealanders with a mountain to climb, as they missed out on The Finals by six points.

Coach Ernie Merrick resigned in December after three years at the club, as Chris Greenacre and Des Buckingham were appointed as joint interim head coaches.

At times the Nix went toe-to-toe with, and even defeated, some of the A-League’s big hitters, however their inconsistency and shaky defence ultimately cost them a finals spot.

Highlight

Two convincing wins over title-chasing Melbourne Victory showed what the Nix were capable of on their day.

Back in January, Wellington stunned Kevin Muscat’s men at the Westpac Stadium, winning 3-0 courtesy of goals from Roly Bonevacia, Jacob Tratt and Kosta Barbarouses

Wellington were also the only team to beat Victory at AAMI Park in April, after another 3-0 triumph.

Lowlight

Ironically, Wellington’s darkest hour also came against Victory when they were thrashed 6-1 at the Etihad Stadium in Round Four.

Besart Berisha netted a hat-trick, while Marco Rojas (twice) and Mitch Austin also took advantage of Wellington’s porous backline.

The result left the Nix rooted to the bottom of the table with no points after four games.

Star Player

Roy Krishna

The versatile forward from Fiji enjoyed a productive season, scoring 12 league goals and recording five assists.

A first half brace against Newcastle Jets in Round Five was among the 29-year-old’s highlights, as was his opening, solo goal in the 3-0 victory over Central Coast Mariners.

Krishna created a total of 50 chances for his teammates over the course of the campaign, with Wellington scoring a respectable 41 league goals.