The Wellington Phoenix women’s team had a season to remember, but it ended in disappointment with a 3-1 loss to Melbourne City in the A-League Women’s grand final.
The match was played at AAMI Park in Melbourne and was a historic moment for the Phoenix, who were competing in their 100th A-League game. It was also their first time ever reaching the playoffs, which made the occasion extra special.
Melbourne City proved too strong. City showed why they are one of the competition’s most experienced finals sides, winning their fifth championship title, and their first since 2020.
City’s star striker Holly McNamara was the difference-maker. She scored her first goal since February in the 40th minute with a looping shot over Phoenix goalkeeper Vic Esson, then added a second just one minute later to give City a 2-0 lead at halftime. McNamara finished the season as the competition’s top scorer, with 13 goals.
Leticia McKenna added a third goal four minutes into the second half, making the result look comfortable for the home side.The Phoenix did manage a consolation goal when striker Makala Woods pounced on a rebound in the 52nd minute, but it was not enough to change the outcome.
The game also marked a milestone for the competition, with video assistant referee (VAR) technology used in a women’s A-League final for the first time.
