It might have been a night to forget for the Phoenix in Christchurch on Saturday night but two Dunedin-born and bred players will have good memories from the game.
The side lost 3-1 to the Central Coast Mariners at AMI Stadium, putting a big hole in its playoff hopes.
Starting for the Phoenix was former Green Island striker Joel Stevens, while James McGarry came on in the second half.
Stevens had come off the bench for the Phoenix in previous A-League games but the match in Christchurch was his first start.
Stevens, who will turn 21 on Sunday, had played for the New Zealand team in the Under-20 World Cup in New Zealand last year.
With injuries robbing the Phoenix side of some strength up front, and the club parting ways with Dutch striker Jeffery Sapong, Stevens was called into action.
He made a good fist of his first start, looking lively at times but could not get the ball in the back of the net, which is proving to be the biggest problem for the Phoenix as it drifts out of playoff contention.
With the side down 2-0, McGarry was summoned from the bench to play the final 15 minutes.
He usually plays on the left side of defence, or midfield, but was pushed further forwards as the side went for goal.
The 17-year-old played a part in the goal scored by the Phoenix and looked lively throughout.
Although it could not be confirmed by the club, he is believed to be one of the youngest players to turn out for the side.
His father, former All White Mike McGarry, and mother were at the game.
McGarry has been playing for the Wellington Phoenix second side, which competes in the New Zealand Football Premiership.
He signed a three-year professional deal with the Wellington outfit last year and is training full time with the club.
The Phoenix has announced a loan deal for Birmingham City striker Alex Jones.
