Soccer: Bertos given all-clear

Wellington Phoenix dangerman Leo Bertos has bounced back from a vicious tackle during his side's 1-1 draw against Brisbane Roar on Sunday and will be available for this weekend's A-League soccer match away against Sydney.

A shudder went through the Phoenix ranks when setpiece specialist Bertos was upended in a late sliding tackle from behind by a frustrated Roar striker Robbie Kruse in the dying minutes of the match

Bertos, who snatched the winner over Perth Glory with a 40m freekick for a 2-1 home win in their previous match, was struck in the right calf and struggled to get up.

However, a club spokesman told NZPA today that Bertos, who has been in sparkling form, appeared to have no lingering effects.

There were no injury problems for the club, with striker Paul Ifill, who started the Roar match with a niggle, expected to be fit for Sydney, the spokesman said.

Midfielder Tim Brown did not travel for the Roar match because of a groin injury but he too was expected to be available, the spokesman added.

The Phoenix have made their best start in three seasons With a win and draw from three matches and are sitting in a tie for fourth in the standings.

- NZPA