"Big Blow" As Phoenix Crumble Again

A consolation goal has failed to hide the Wellington Phoenix's trouble in front of the net in a 3-1 loss to Central Coast in Christchurch.

Blake Powell's added time effort was just the side's six goal in their last eight games, none of which they have won.

Coach Ernie Merrick is worried, and hopes to get Roy Krishna back soon.

While there is still ten rounds to go, the Phoenix could slip to second last by the end of the weekend and Merrick says the team can't afford losses like that.

"It's a big blow," he said. "You can't play a team at the bottom of the league and get beaten three-one. It's huge."

"I was disappointed we let our fans down as well. It was a good crowd."

Meanwhile, Brisbane have moved to second after a 3-1 win over Sydney FC, while Melbourne Victory midfielder Fahid Ben Khalfallah has been sent off for kicking an opponent behind play in his team's shock 3-2 loss to Perth Glory.

Radio Sport