Adelaide United’s winless start to the season is over after Henrique scored a stunning brace in a 2-0 defeat of Wellington Phoenix at Coopers Stadium on Sunday.
The Brazilian lashed home two sweet first-half strikes to lead the champions to a drought-breaking first victory, in the process leapfrogging Wellington into ninth.
The visitors had an ideal chance to go ahead on 20 minutes when Dylan McGowan tripped a surging Adam Parkhouse, but Reds captain Eugene Galekovic parried away Roy Krishna’s penalty.
From there it was the Henrique show as the former Brisbane Roar forward hit a pair of classy first-time efforts from outside the area in a dominant 15-minute period.
The Reds enjoyed late chances to extend their advantage but it mattered little as the reigning double-winners did enough to climb off the foot of the ladder.
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GOALS
1-0 Adelaide: Henrique, 26’
After a goalmouth scramble inside the Wellington penalty area, Adelaide worked the ball to Henrique on the edge of the area and the Brazilian unleashed a left-footed bullet beyond the outstretched Glen Moss.
2-0 Adelaide: Henrique, 39’
More brilliance from the Brazilian as he again gave Moss no chance with another first-time blockbuster, curling a short free-kick into the corner from long range.
KEY MOMENT
For the second straight week, Phoenix forward Roy Krishna failed to convert his first attempt from the spot. This time he didn’t get a second bite and it cost his side the lead.
OPTA DATA
–Adelaide United have now won six of their last seven home games against Wellington Phoenix.
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