New Zealand-born Ghanaian winger Kwabena Appiah scored the match-winner for Wellington Phoenix in their hard-fought 1-0 win over Central Coast Mariners on Tuesday.Â
The former Wanderers attacker took just 20 minutes to score on debut for his new club after dispossessing Mariners goalkeeper Paul Izzo, who hesitated after receiving a routine backpass.
The Phoenix took the lead after 17 minutes, when Kwabena Appiah forced goalkeeper Paul Izzo into an error when trying to play out of defence.
The Mariners were presented with a golden opportunity to equalise from the penalty spot in the 84th minute after Jake McGing was fouled in the box. However, Roy O’Donovan could not convert from twelve yards, sending his shot crashing into the crossbar.
Wellington will now prepare themselves for another away trip in the round of 16, while the Mariners have two months of preparation until their next competitive fixture against Perth Glory in round one of the A-League.
The draw for round of 16 matches - to be played between August 25-September 2 - will be held on Wednesday.
The Phoenix have not yet play at home in the FFA Cup, having lost to the eventual champions Adelaide United 1-0 in the round of 32 in Adelaide last season.