Win not enough to stop South West Phoenix from being relegated from State league division 2

Such has been the nature of their 2022 season, even in victory, the South West Phoenix ultimately lost. Gareth Johnston’s side displayed tremendous character in recording their second victory of the campaign last Saturday, when they defeated mid-table Joondalup City 1-0 at Onside Sports Stadium. A piece of magic from Jayden Prosser in the 51th minute was enough to secure all three points for the Phoenix, whose faint hopes of avoiding relegation at that stage remained alive. Unfortunately for the Phoenix, news filtered through moments after the final whistle regarding second-bottom Canning City, who secured a smash-and-grab 1-0 away win against the Morley Windmills, which ultimately confirmed their relegation back to the Belt Up amateur premier division. Heading into Wednesday night’s game against Swan United at home, Johnston remained unwavering in his support of the squad, despite the team’s relegation. “I believe the Canning City result summed up our season really,” Johnston said. “I think we were delaying the inevitable but I cannot fault the work-rate or the effort from the players they have put in while I have been charge at the club. “Especially lately, given the fact we will have played six games in two weeks, which has been a massive ask. “Obviously this has put a lot of pressure on the bodies and on the minds — as we knew every game coming up was essentially a cup final.”