Soccer: Phoenix out to attack Mariners

Daniel Cortes. Photo / Getty Images

Defender Ben Sigmund has been omitted from the Wellington Phoenix squad for tonight's A-League clash against the Central Coast Mariners at Westpac Stadium.

It's the final round of the regular season tonight.

Coach Ricki Herbert has instead gone for a more attacking option as he goes all out to grab the win and secure a home semifinal. Herbert says attacking midfielder Daniel Cortes will replace Sigmund on the bench because he wants all three points against the Mariners.

He says they are in the playoffs, and now he wants a match at home to reward their loyal fans.

Daniel will be joined in the reserves by striker Eugene Dadi and either Leo Bertos or Adrian Caceres, depending on who starts on the left side of the front three.

Meanwhile, Costa Barbarouses has turned his back on the club, signing a three-year deal to join rivals Brisbane Roar.

The New Zealand age group star has struggled for regular football with the Phoenix since signing in the inaugural season, and turned down a two year offer to stay in the capital.

- NEWSTALK ZB