The Nix Fix: Pre-Season Progress
Welcome back to The Nix Fix for season 2015/16.
After the success of last season, which saw the Wellington Phoenix qualify for the finals for the first time since 2011/12, it’s fair to say expectations among fans have been raised. It’s now up to Ernie Merrick and his men to take those expectations and turn them into performances on the pitch that will lead to the Nix qualifying and then pushing further into the finals than the first week.
It’s been a busy off-season for the Nix so let’s take a look at a few key discussion points that have emerged as we build towards the kick off of the new season.
Nathan Burns Departure
Although Burns was signed on a two year deal, it was always going to be unlikely he would stick around at the Nix more than that first season. As soon as Burns hit form and began scoring goals the transfer rumours fired up. The recalled Socceroo leaves the Nix for FC Tokyo as the first player in Phoenix history to score a hat-trick and the fastest player to reach 10 goals in an A-League season. The Phoenix player of the year and Johnny Warren medal winner will be a tough player to replace but reports are that the club is in negotiations with a European based striker with an announcement likely this week.
2015/16 Season Draw
The Nix will open their season at home against Newcastle in 2 months time on Sunday 11th October. Of the 13 home games, 11 will be held at Westpac Stadium in Wellington, with one game each being played in Auckland and Christchurch. The team will be away for both Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve against Adelaide and Central Coast respectively. Something worth noting is the final two games of the regular season will both be played in Wellington where home ground advantage could be vital if the team is still battling for position in the top six.
Blake Powell
Arguably the biggest signing of the off-season (until previously mentioned European based striker is announced) is that of former Sydney FC striker Blake Powell. The 24 year-old has been with NPL club APIA Leichhardt where he’s been clocking up goals at a frantic rate with 21 in just 16 appearances. Powell was previously part of Sydney FC’s Champions League squad and has admitted it was the chance of working under Merrick that drew him to the Nix.
FFA Cup vs Central Coast
This Tuesday night the Nix will take on Central Coast Mariners in their round of 32 FFA Cup matchup. Last year the Nix failed to make it over the first hurdle, going down to eventual cup winners Adelaide United. With Central Coast going through a rebuilding phase the Nix should head into the encounter confident they can pick up the win and progress to the final 16. Merrick will be without the use of Powell and midfielder Alex Rodriguez who is battling a hamstring issue.
