Above: Wellington Phoenix goalkeeper Brooke Neary reflects on her starting debut. Image: Wellington Phoenix.
By Tayla O’Brien (12/11/2026)
Wellington Phoenix’s confidence is high after a 2-0 win over Adelaide United ahead of the Phoenix’s return to Porirua Park.
The Phoenix are heading back to Porirua Park with some new-found energy after securing their first win of the season, a result which both Brooke Neary and Brooke Nunn said was important for the group as they find more rhythm for the season.
Despite a difficult start of the season and a hard loss against Perth, the Phoenix responded with a positive week of review and training. Neary said that there was a major shift in the group’s mood in Adelaide.
For Neary, the victory carried additional significance, marking a personal milestone after earning her first start following her last match and debut off the bench in the final match for the Phoenix during the 24/25 season.
Reflecting on her performance, Neary said she was particularly pleased with two important moments, including a punch and a one-on-one save.
Her journey into this role is unique, having only three years of goalkeeper experience after playing the start of her footballing journey as an outfield player. After being scouted she remained hesitant but the support of her dad and the club ultimately helped her take the opportunity.
“It’s been a crazy three years and I’m so grateful,” Neary said.
The occasion was made even more special by the support given to her by those around her. Neary described returning to the change rooms as a moment she’ll always remember.
“It was a pretty pinch-me moment, like coming back into the change rooms having everyone around me, and all the messages and calls, it’s pretty cool,” Neary said.
Neary also acknowledged the guidance received from experienced goalkeeper Vic Esson, highlighting the support and advice that has helped her within the squad and her development.
While the result provided a boost within the squad, the focus is now turned to returning back home, with both Neary and Nunn expressing their excitement at being able to play at Porirua Park in front of the Phoenix supporters.
For Neary, the connection with the home crowd is something the players are looking forward to experiencing again.
“I think the girls are buzzing, obviously we love Sky Stadium, but Porirua Park…” Neary said. “It’s such a great vibe and atmosphere.”
Nunn said she sees how important the supporters are to the team and what they bring to match days.
“We love it at that stadium, the atmosphere is so good, the energy is good, the crowd really becomes our 12th man,” Nunn said. “We are really excited to be back home.”
For Nunn, this win was more than just getting three points. Having felt that the team deserved more from their previous performances, securing a win and three points just gives the team an extra boost of confidence and is a step forward for the group. She said that the squad had felt a little shaky following Perth, but the win had helped lift the mood.
With a group continuing to build connections and learn each other’s playing styles, Nunn said that developing chemistry takes time, particularly as players adjust to new teammates and combinations.
The competition within the squad is another important factor, everyone is fighting for their spot which is earned through consistent performances and commitment. Nunn stressed the importance of the players showing up each week ready to compete, with everyone wanting to show what they have.
As the Phoenix continue building, the first win offers major confidence. With the energy growing, combinations developing, confidence building and a return to Porirua Park coming, the players will be looking to carry their energy into their next set of challenges.
With their squad developing and supporters ready to play their part, the Phoenix will be hoping there’s more to celebrate.
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