Phoenix show heart in goal bonanza against City

The South West Phoenix fell 4-3 to Rockingham City during an absorbing Belt Up amateur night series clash at Bunbury’s Onside Sports Stadium on Saturday night.

Tempers were frayed at times in the first half as the visitors attempted to rattle the Phoenix’s younger brigade in defence.

Unfortunately for Phoenix boss Nick Carter, the endeavour shown was not enough, with all four goals conceded — including the 93rd minute winner from Harry Bolan — coming from City set pieces.

“We have a game plan and it seems to be working now,” Carter said. “Unfortunately, conceding four off set pieces was disappointing. But it gives us something to work on over the next few weeks before our next game, which at the moment is an FFA Cup fixture.”

Carter praised the input of impressive youngster Nathan Hartmann, along with goalkeeper Kobe Lie, who filled in for Jamie Oakey.

“Kobe is a good ’keeper,” he said.

“He is young, so with Jamie doing shift work we needed a ‘keeper we could rely on, along with someone who was keen to get better. Kobe has good hands, he is agile and great with his pass distribution.

“He is going to be a great player in future for this club, there is no doubt about that.”

Focus in the night series tournament now shifts to the women’s competition, with the South West Firebirds opening their campaign on Saturday night at Onside Sports Stadium.