Western United played out a 1-1 draw with Wellington Phoenix on Thursday night at UTAS Stadium, Launceston.
The line-up
Josh Risdon made his first start since last season’s A-League Finals.
Lachie Wales returned from a concussion that kept him out of last week’s win over Central Coast Mariners.
Dylan Pierias pushed higher up the pitch, while Besart Berisha and Iker Guarrotxena moved to the bench.
Rizzo's back in the starting XI 😍 Tonight's line-up, brought to you by @SimondsHomes #WUNvWEL #RiseUp #WUFC
— Western United FC (@wufcofficial) April 22, 2021
The match
Wellington took an early lead through Ben Waine, who scored for the third game in a row.
Ulises Dávila’s low cross was met by Waine who guided his finish into the bottom corner.
Despite more early pressure from the Phoenix, it was United who next found the back of the net.
Lachie Wales received the ball inside the area before finessing his shot into the bottom right corner, giving Nix keeper Oli Sail no chance.
Wales with his third of the season ⚽️ #WUNvWEL #RiseUp #WUFC pic.twitter.com/z1hzSj0k6K
— Western United FC (@wufcofficial) April 22, 2021
United was reduced to 10 men just before half-time as Brendan Hamill was shown his second yellow card.
Hamill leaped for a header but was penalised for his outstretched arm.
Chances were few and far between in the second half, as Wellington failed to capitalise on the numerical advantage on the pitch.
The Nix best chance came late on as Ulises Dávila’s strike rattled the post.
Next match
Western United return to Victoria to take on Newcastle Jets at AAMI Park on Monday, 26 April. Kick-off is 7:05pm.
