It was messy but Mark Rudan is off to a winning start in his debut match as a manager of the Wellington Phoenix as they defeated last season's grand finalists Newcastle Jets 2-1.
NEWCASTLE JETS
Glenn Moss - 6.5
No doubt Moss was getting frustrated by Wellington's encroaching tactics on corners and set pieces although he handled himself well he could do nothing about Georgievski's own goal.A good save from the penalty but couldn't react quick enough for the rebound.
Jason Hoffman - 6
A delightful ball set free Jair who couldn't capitalise early in the match. Hoffman supplied another great cut-back to Ridenton who's poor finish was blocked.
Nigel Boogard - 4
Cleaned up well as Wellington attempted to play direct but his passing deteriorated as the game wore on and was dispossessed a number of times.
Nikolai Topor-Stanley - 5
Provided great cover with the direct balls in behind his defensive partner but got caught in the sunlight as Roy Krishna dashed past and hit the side netting.
Daniel Georgievski - 4
Was doing everything right until he comitted to heading Taylor's cut back which ended up in his own net.
Lachlan Jackson - 4.5
Poor distribution put Newcastle under more pressure once they conceded which was deadly against players like Krishna and Williams.
Matthew Ridenton - 4.5
Lost possession but hustled to win it back and nearly finished the move but his poor finish prevented newcastle going a goal up.
Steven Ugarkovic - 5
Passing play was neither here nor there as Dimi Petratos dropped deep to find some touches on the ball.
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