Football Season Guide

Phoenix were really unlucky to miss out on the top 6 last season. They played some scintillating football and, had they been allowed to play their home games in New Zealand, they'd have managed it. Covid-19 meant relocating to Wollongong for most of the season though, and it cost them. Covid-19 is going to hurt them again this season too. They're back playing home games in Wollongong, Australia, at least until 2022 (it will be reviewed in January). New Zealand's regulations surrounding people coming to and from are stricter than Australia's so signing players both has been tough. Key defender Taylor left under a cloud. Key playmaker Davila moved to title hopefuls Macarthur FC. Regular striker Hemed joined Western Sydney Wanderers. That's arguably their three best players. Devlin enjoyed a standout campaign but opted to sign with Newcastle Jets rather than signing a new contract. Their signings have been amongst the worst in the division for reasons already mentioned. Elliot will do well, he knows the team well enough by now. Hooper will do a reasonable job in Hemed's stead. The rest are optimistic signings. Strengths - tenacity. Few teams care more than they do. Great pace in wide areas via Sotirio, Piscopo, and Ball. Good front three. Combative midfield. Sail has emerged as a reliable shot stopper. Excellent manager. Weaknesses - zero depth anywhere in the squad; will be forced to rely on kids. Absence of natural playmaker. Absence of defensive leaders. Irreplaceable players - Hooper, Ball, McGarry.