The Wellington Phoenix\u2019s playoff hopes have been dealt a hammer blow following a 1-0 loss at Porirua Park to undefeated Melbourne City. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Carolina Vil\u00e3o\u2019s second penalty save of the season was not enough to prevent a second straight defeat at home, leaving the Nix four points shy of a playoff spot with two games remaining. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Phoenix head coach Paul Temple was disappointed with the result, but was full of praise for the visiting side. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe did put up a brave fight,\u201d he told media post-match. \u201cWe gave a lot to the game. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cFor large parts we did frustrate them. When they go 1-0 up, that changes your game plan. You\u2019ve got to take more risks, be on the front foot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cYou can see why they\u2019re top of the league and unbeaten. They\u2019ve got a bit of everything. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe knew they were going to dominate the ball, but they also dominated physically which you perhaps don’t expect. They\u2019re mentality monsters, and that\u2019s why they\u2019re top.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, he thought the team should have been able to prevent Holly McNamara\u2019s winning goal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n