Wouldn't Mind That Phoenix Rising...
We keep it real here at the Nichey Niche, so right off the bat I'm gonna say that I, myself, the Mystery Doc am no Wellington Phoenix expert. Fair play I know a fair bit about them, but I would definitely classify myself as someone who watches on from a distance.
They've always been interesting, but then came the point where Ricki Herbert wore out his welcome. Great lad no doubt, but it became clear that the Nix needed to move in a different direction which led to Ernie Merrick jumping on board. That coincided with a host of young talent, which Herbert deserves at least a little bit of credit for setting up the systems etc, with the likes of Tyler Boyd, Louis Fenton, Matt Ridenton and young Rufer along with a few more getting a decent run. The fact that some of these guys have already played for the All Whites is a testament to their talent.
So I reached a point where the Nix simply weren't worth me watching them. I live on a high horse where you have to earn the right for me to watch you play. No, don't be dumb. It's just when there's another game from whatever sport on or you're out with your mates - a Wellington Phoenix who mumble, stumble and defend their way to gritty results - more often than not losses - isn't too appealing. It's not enough for me to stop what I'm doing and pay attention, feel me?
But, this season is already different and it hasn't even begun. Much like the Black Caps, I'm excited ... not how we all get semi excited for the Warriors, no, genuine excitement which is justified. If you're reading this, you probably don't need me to try convince you because you probably have the same feeling. Michael McGlinchey is someone who offers what nearly every kiwi team in an Aussie league needs - a workhorse professional. Nathan Burns is a decent Aussie pro who will probably start or at the very least provide depth while Alex Rodriquez and Roly Bonevacia offer some midfield class. All these lads are new signings who offer something, not guys who will ride the pine, and there'll also be Tom Doyle who pretty much came from nowhere to debut for the All Whites against Uzbekistan.
Decent, all round decent when you put them alongside the talent already in Wellington. I feel like there'll be a group of players who could all start, obviously with only 11 guys able to do so, there'll be quality off the bench and plenty of injury cover. On the injury subject, pray for Albert Riera's safety and if you see him give him some bubble wrap so he doesn't get any silly knocks or niggles.
This is a group of footballers, not a group of kiwi lads who try hard. They're led by a coach who really wants to play football how, well... how everyone should want to play football. Sometimes resources get in the way of that desire so things don't quite pan out the way coaches want, but Merrick seems to have assembled his crop of lads.
You already know that we'll be all over the Phoenix this season, we've lost our fair weathered friend who wrote about them last season - he's fair weathered after all, but we'll do our best. We're not sure exactly how we're going to cover them, but I have a feeling it's going to be a joy to do so. Get behind them, go to the games ... I don't want to get too preachy to the Wellington faithful because you already show more than enough love for the Nix, but if you're on the brink of getting in behind the Nix, do so.