Two Phoenix games for Auckland Stadiums next summer

Thursday, 9 June 2016

Hot on the heels of the news that Coldplay will play a concert at Mt Smart this December, the FFA have this afternoon (June 9) announced that the Wellington Phoenix will play two games in Auckland in the forthcoming (2016/17) Hyundai A-League football season.

The first match will kick off at Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday, December 17 and the second at Albany’s QBE Stadium on Saturday, March 4.

Director Auckland Stadiums (a business unit of Regional Facilities Auckland) Paul Nisbet said the announcement was great news for Auckland’s legion of Yellow Fever fans who will have two opportunities to watch their team in action.

“We’re delighted that the Phoenix are returning to Auckland after their successful match here (a 2-0 win over Melbourne Victory at QBE Stadium on December 5) last season. It will be double the action next summer and we’re confident that Aucklanders will turn out in force at both Mt Smart and QBE as we look to lock in the ‘Nix to playing at least twice in Auckland in future seasons.

“We’ve established a great relationship with the Phoenix and can offer excellent venues, both with proud football histories, for our country’s footballing flag-bearers to play in the tough trans-Tasman competition,” Mr Nisbet said.

Wellington Phoenix General Manager David Dome said his club was looking forward to playing before their Auckland fans on both sides of the harbour bridge.

“We’re expecting to turn both Mt Smart and QBE black and yellow next season when we hit town. After the great victory over Melbourne last December, we’re keen to return and get similar results.”

“Once again, Auckland Stadiums have been terrific to work with and we’re delighted to be back in Auckland twice next summer,” Mr Dome said.

ENDS

© Scoop Media