Soft defensive errors cost Sydney: Lavicka

Sydney FC coach Vitezslav Lavicka was once again left bemoaning soft defensive errors as his team were downed 2-1 by Wellington Phoenix in their A-League clash at Westpac Stadium on Sunday.

The loss comes a week after Central Coast Mariners beat Sydney 3-2, and Lavicka was again unhappy at the ease with which his defensive line leaked goals.

The first came after just seven minutes, striker Paul Ifill slotting home a beautifully weighted long ball from Tony Lochhead.

The second was on the 60-minute mark, as Phoenix midfielder Tim Brown dispossessed Nicky Carle near halfway after a less than effective clearance from goalkeeper Liam Reddy.

Brown spotted the former Phoenix stopper was off his line and hoisted the ball into the net from 45 metres out.

Lavicka, looking for his players to make amends for last week’s poor effort, was not happy.

“We conceded a very early goal, another soft mistake made by our defence,” he said.

“In the second half we improved a bit, but in my opinion another soft mistake and very aggressive play created the second goal. So full credit for Brown, and for the Phoenix.”

There were no surprises from the Phoenix, who played aggressively and very effectively, Lavicka added.

“But for the last two games, we’ve been making soft mistakes in defence. Then suddenly we’re 2-0 down, and it’s very difficult to turn the game and come back from behind.”

Sydney striker Bruno Cazarine, subbed on in the 55th minute, kept the Phoenix honest when his miscued kick clattered past ‘keeper Tony Warner with 20 minutes remaining.

But although Sydney upped the tempo, they couldn’t manage to convert the few chances on offer.

“We scored the goal, and created some other good opportunities, but it wasn’t enough to pick up the points,” Lavicka said.