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The two New Zealand-based A-League sides are currently occupying the top two spots in the table. Both teams took down their Australian rivals in Sunday evening play. Wellington Phoenix defeated Melbourne Victory and Auckland FC took out Macarthur on Sunday evening.
Both victories saw the New Zealand sides go 1-0 for the win. Auckland FC was back in action after a long break thanks to a bye and international breaks. Guillermo May scored the goal but the outstanding defence made the difference, including Alex Paulsen's two saves and a commanding aerial performance.
Kosta Barbarouses scored the winning goal in the 82nd minute for the Phoenix during his 96th A-League match. He told Sky Sport it was tough work in the afternoon heat, but the team had shown their adaptability. "We just get on with it," he said.
It was hard work in the hot conditions but the team was very adaptable, he said. The Victory had by far the better of the first half, with 10 shots at goal - though only two were on target - to the Phoenix's two, with Daniel Arzani looking particularly threatening for them. It was the Phoenix's sturdy defence that frustrated Melbourne in the second half in the Sydney heat and Barbarouses, one of the game's best players, made them ultimately pay.
Next up, the two New Zealand sides have a derby clash at Mt Smart, next Saturday at 5pm - a battle between the top two of the A-League. RNZ will be covering the match live..
