Phoenix secure positive result amid emotional circumstances

The South West Phoenix secured a deserved 1-all draw against Mandurah City during Saturday night’s entertaining state league men’s night series fixture at Onside Sports Stadium. Aside from securing a positive result following their opening round defeat, the lionhearted display by the hosts capped off an emotional 24 hours for coach Nick Carter, who found out his father had died in the UK following a battle with cancer. Prior to the clash, all players and referees observed a minute’s silence, along with donning black armbands — two gestures which meant a great deal to the Phoenix boss. “When I found out earlier, I just wanted to get the day out of the way,” Carter said. “However, I knew we still had a job to do. Once the game had finished, it was a wave of emotions for me, but he (Carter’s father) would have been happy watching them from above and how they went about it on Saturday night.” After bossing possession early in the first half, City took the lead in the 34th minute through Rory McGrath, however the Phoenix persevered and relished a Nathan Hartmann equaliser (61st minute) which ensured both sides finished with a point. “It was so pleasing to see the desire and determination,” Carter said. “Nathan Hartmann scored a goal and he is only 16 years old, with quality finishing. “Lee Stewart was phenomenal up front, as was Oli McGee at the back.” The Phoenix complete the night series group stage at 7pm on Saturday night at Bunbury’s Onside Sports Stadium, where they will host Rockingham City.