Soccer: Phoenix's Johnson wins DUI appeal

Wellington Phoenix footballer Richard Johnson has been spared the nightmare of jail time across the Tasman.

The 33-year-old's appeal against his eight-month prison sentence for a drink driving conviction has been successful.

Johnson has been handed a suspended sentence and a fine from a Newcastle Court after being arrested in March. At the time his blood alcohol reading was four times above the legal limit.

Had his appeal bid failed, Johnson's contract with the Phoenix almost certainly would have been torn up.

Johnson did not want to go into the details of his appeal but said the outcome was what he had hoped. He said they had a favourable result and he can now continue with his playing career. He said it has probably been the worst time of his life but the stress and heartache he put his family through has been even worse and he is glad it is behind him now.

Johnson said he has spoken to the Phoenix and he is hoping to meet with club officials over the weekend to sort everything out.

- NEWSTALK ZB