Phoenix need to cast own shadow

BY DUNCAN JOHNSTONE

ALL White Tony Lochhead says the Phoenix need to step up and convince Australians of New Zealand's worth to their A-League competition as the game faces a crucial juncture here.

New Zealand's stunning qualification for next year's World Cup has brought the financial security to ensure the future of football in this country.

As the game's bigwigs try to sort out that direction, Lochhead believes the Australian competition offers a crucial pathway to the trials and tribulations of a professional footballer.

He would like to see New Zealand get another franchise but knows that will only happen if the Wellington Phoenix can finally step up after the previous struggles of the Football Kingz and New Zealand Knights.

The Phoenix lie sixth in the playoff mix and they will try to strengthen that position with an away match against the Newcastle Jets this evening.

"If we want to be taken seriously we have to do something to make some noise over there," defender Lochhead, a key figure in last week's remarkable win over Bahrain, said as he prepared to return to club duties. "Until that happens we won't have another shot at another team.

"It's up to us to make sure we get it done and we do cause some surprises over there. I think they are still sceptical about us."

Lochhead believes Australia is an option for New Zealand to explore further.

"I think it would be hard to get a fully professional league going in New Zealand – we might be too small at the moment," he said.

"To be involved in the A-League and get another team if the Phoenix go well would be a step in the right direction."

Lochhead isn't new to these situations. Raised in Tauranga, he headed to the United States after school and attended the University of Santa Barbara before spending four seasons in the Major League Soccer with franchises in California and New England.

He says football is booming in America.

"They are moving in the right direction. If you go to college over there it's a pretty good stepping stone into the MLS. Facilities are good and there is a lot of money structurally.

"But a lot of the boom has to do with the national team doing so well, that's a big factor.

"It's probably something similar with the Aussie team as well – they are doing well and that will help with the A-League."

Lochhead believes New Zealand could add some expansion value if the Phoenix can push on.

"It's about getting results consistently. That's something we have to work on."

As for today's match, Lochhead says there should be no problem with the Phoenix's six All Whites getting up after the festivities following their win over Bahrain. Those celebrations included Lochhead giving goalkeeper Mark Paston a special pat on the back for saving the penalty he had conceded.

Ricki Herbert, who coaches both sides, has trained the club team hard this week.

"Tuesday was a double session so they kind of killed us right from the get-go," Lochhead said.

"I'm looking forward to getting back into the Phoenix. It seems like we are going all right this season – we're halfway there and we need to make sure we get some good results."

- © Fairfax NZ News