Wellington Phoenix Women will return home needing a result after a 2-1 loss to Brisbane Roar in the first leg of their A-League Women semi-final.
The Phoenix made the perfect start in Brisbane, with forward Grace Jale heading in an early goal from a corner inside two minutes to give the visitors immediate momentum.
Wellington had chances to extend their lead soon after. Makala Woods struck the post after breaking clear, while Lucía León sent a header narrowly wide.
Brisbane responded quickly, equalising just over 10 minutes later through captain Momo Hayashi, who powered in a close-range header from a corner.
From there, the Roar began to take control. Goalkeeper Vic Esson produced several key saves to keep the scores level through the first half, while the Phoenix defence held firm, including a crucial goal-line clearance from Ellie Walker.
The second half saw Brisbane increase the pressure, with Wellington struggling to maintain possession in attacking areas. Esson remained busy, denying multiple efforts as the home side pushed forward.
The decisive moment came in the 72nd minute when a defensive error fell to teenage striker Daisy Brown, who finished from close range to give Brisbane the lead.
Wellington were unable to generate clear chances late in the match, with their attacking threat largely contained as Brisbane saw out the result.
Head coach Bev Priestman said her side would need to respond in the return leg.
“It was a difficult game as we expected. We played a little bit into the way Brisbane played.
“At the end of the day we switched off in moments and that’s what happens at the highest level against a good team.”
Despite the defeat, Priestman remains confident her side can turn things around at home.
“It’s a one goal deficit. An early goal and the game’s back on and we’re at home.
“Now you learn a lot about people and players. The best teams respond and this is an opportunity to step up.”
The second leg will be played at Porirua Park next Sunday, with strong local support expected and the club targeting a crowd of around 6,000.
With a place in the final on the line, the task is clear for the Phoenix. A win at home keeps their season alive.