Phoenix back in the saddle for Night Series opener

His side might have tasted a heavy 8-0 defeat against Mandurah City last Saturday at Onside Sports Stadium, but South West Phoenix boss Nick Carter isn’t losing sleep over the result. In fact, enthusiasm at training has increased since the preseason friendly, as the Phoenix host Curtin University in Saturday’s opener of the State League Night Series tournament in Bunbury. “We’ve focused on dealing with high intensity pressure,” Carter said. “Against Curtin University, we will more than likely rotate the players to give others minutes and look after individual workloads.” Despite a disappointing first half against City, Carter assured fans there was no need to hurl teacups at the wall during his half-time team talk. “It was a good run out for the lads,” he said. “We were able to try some new things and see where we are at in terms of fitness and tactics.” Kickoff is at 5pm.