![\"Marisa](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/4JQQTAO_20260403156373610596_original_jpg.jpeg\")
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\nMarisa Van Der Meer (L) of the Phoenix celebrates a goal with team mate Lucia Leon.
\nPhoto: photosport\n<\/p>\n
The Wellington Phoenix have swept aside Adelaide United 2-0 to secure second-placing in the women’s A-League regular-season standings – comfortably their best finish.<\/p>\n
Bev Priestman’s team will get a bye through the first round of the play-offs courtesy of a top finish, bettered only by Premier Plate winners Melbourne City.<\/p>\n
They had never previously reached the knockout phase and will take confidence in their next fixture – a home-and-away semi-final.<\/p>\n
Coming off successive losses, they turned their form around in style.<\/p>\n
The Phoenix dominated fourth-placed Adelaide United in the early stages and were rewards with two goals in the space of five minutes midway through the first half – both from corners.<\/p>\n
The first went to Marisa Van der Meer, who was unmarked at the back post to finish Brooke Nunn’s.<\/p>\n
Then outstanding wing back Brooke Nunn found the net herself, also from a header, after meeting Manaia Elliott’s cross.<\/p>\n
The Phoenix dominated first half and were then content to sit back in the second and ensure they maintained their advantage.<\/p>\n
They attempted 13 shots to four, with most of their best chances forall in the first half.<\/p>\n
Wellington have thrived under the eye of experienced international coach Priestman.<\/p>\n
They finished the regular season with 10 wins, four draws and six defeats, bagging a league-high 38 goals and conceding the least goals, 17.<\/p>\n