A Derby for the ages! 2 red cards, 2 incredible goals, a melee and bragging rights for Auckland

A Derby for the Ages!

Drama, Red Cards, and Bragging Rights for Auckland

Nine-man Auckland FC triumphed over Wellington Phoenix 2–1 in the season's first New Zealand Derby of the Isuzu UTE A-League. Despite being reduced to nine players, Auckland held firm under relentless pressure from Wellington.

Defenders Dan Hall and substitute Logan Rogerson both received red cards in the second half, forcing Auckland to defend with nine men for the final 20 minutes. Yet, Steve Corica’s still-unbeaten squad secured their fourth consecutive derby victory at Sky Stadium on Saturday night.

“Auckland exposed Wellington’s high line after just 28 seconds – Cosgrove on hand to poke home the ball in a sensational moment that left Sky Stadium stunned.”

Wellington responded swiftly when their new signing Eze struck a stunning equalizer from the edge of the penalty area in the ninth minute. However, Auckland once again exploited the Phoenix’s defense late in the first half. Jesse Randall lifted the ball over goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi, and though he celebrated, teammate Cosgrove was ultimately credited with the decisive goal.

Key Highlights

Early goal by Cosgrove silenced the Wellington crowd.
Eze’s equalizer momentarily revived Phoenix hopes.
Two red cards left Auckland battling with nine men.
Fourth consecutive derby win keeps Auckland’s unbeaten streak alive.

Author’s Summary

Auckland FC’s resilient 2–1 win over Wellington Phoenix turned into a New Zealand Derby classic, defined by drama, red cards, and remarkable composure under pressure.

A-Leagues — 2025-11-08