The excitement surrounding Darije Kalezić’s first campaign at the helm just became more palpable with the release of the A-League draw for the 2017/18 season.

First up, it’s the battle of the new European coaches as Adelaide and their German coach Marco Kurz are the first visitors to Wellington.

Away trips to the reigning champions Sydney FC and reigning FFA Cup holders Melbourne City follow in Rounds Two and Three before Saturday nights become the home of football in Wellington with up to seven home fixtures at Westpac Stadium kicking off at 7.35pm.

Northern supporters and members will see the Phoenix in the flesh with the team traveling to Auckland in Round 23 to take on the Newcastle Jets at QBE.

The club are happy to announce that at least 10 games will be played at Westpac Stadium this season, with 1 or 2 home games to be hosted elsewhere, the specific dates of which are yet to be confirmed.