Wellington's width meets Central Coast's quick forward combinations in a contest shaped by the first pass after possession changes. The Phoenix scored through two different wide deliveries in their opener. The Mariners also created open-play chances through several suppliers, beyond the penalties that supplied their goals.
Sheridan's cross to Piper and Walker's cutback to Bidois show how Wellington can move a defence. At the other end, their opener included a driving equaliser and further clear runs behind. Mauragis, Brandtman and the Mariners' substitutes have already supplied Lavale and other receivers in those kinds of forward positions.
Rufer missed Wellington's opener through illness and is in the extended squad without a confirmed starting role. Durán also returns to the squad after his ankle-related exit, while Walker has already demonstrated an alternative wide route. The listed continuing absentees were outside the opening starting teams.
Both sides have had a full league recovery week, and their attacking substitutes give the second half its own shape. Central Coast's continued supply after their first equaliser is the key detail for me. I'm siding with the Mariners to finish level or better.
