Roar’s defenders instrumental in 1-0 win over Phoenix

Queensland can thank their defenders for helping them continue their unbeaten A-League run against the Wellington Phoenix, which was extended by a 1-0 win at Westpac Stadium today.

The Roar backs, led by veteran Socceroo Craig Moore, kept the dangerous Phoenix strikers of Vaughan Coveny and Shane Smeltz in check, while one of their own, central defender Josh McCloughan, provided the winner with a 40th-minute header.

The Roar’s victory elevated them from sixth to fifth spot on the ladder and kept them in touch with the top four, and ensured they are unbeaten in five games against the Phoenix.

Queensland defied cold conditions in the New Zealand capital to make a great start, as Massimo Murdocca put a good shot on target inside the first minute.

Charlie Miller also troubled Wellington with a long range shot and free kick, before McCloughan scored from Matthew McKay’s cross, after the Roar caught the Phoenix off-guard with a quickly-taken corner.

The Phoenix lifted after the break and made several good attacks early in the second half, but it was not until the dying stages they had their best chances to equalise.

But Leilei Gao headed straight to Roar keeper Liam Reddy in the 86th minute, and Leo Bertos squandered a golden chance five minutes later, but put his shot high and wide when he found himself with only Reddy to beat.

The defeat was Wellington’s first since round five, but they remain in seventh spot despite their encouraging recent form.

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