While the Phoenix were on top in an enthralling contest, the all-important goal was proving elusive with some good chances going begging.
Enter Fijian speedster Krishna in the 70th minute and suddenly the home side looked more dangerous.
Only a timely intervention by a Wanderers defender stopped Krishna scoring with his first touch, and ten minutes later it was the diminutive striker who set up Nathan Burns for the deciding goal.
Released on the left flank with a pass from Roly Bonevacia, Krishna sped away and rolled an inch-perfect pass into the path of Burns who netted his fourth goal of the season.
Michael McGlinchey had a chance to join Burns on four goals minutes later when the Phoenix were awarded a penalty, but he was thwarted by Wanderers keeper Ante Covic.
Asked about the way he set up Burns for the winning goal, the softly-spoken Fijian said it was straight from the training ground.
“Ernie just told me to play the way we train and that’s what I did,” Krishna said.
“When I looked up I knew where Burnsie would be and just slid it across to him. that is what we do every day at training.”
Krishna said being in professional environment helped him improve his game and physical condition.
“When I joined the Phoenix last season I was a bit weak but I have been getting stronger and more confident and enjoying myself every day.”
Merrick was obviously delighted with the three points and was just as pleased with the way the win was achieved.
“We beat what is officially the best team in Asia and did it in style,” an upbeat Merrick said.
“I think the mind set of let’s go out and win and play good football is being instilled in the players.
“It helps to have players like Roly and Mikey who can play different positions because we now have that mobility which means we can bring on the likes of Roy.”
Story courtesy of Wellington Phoenix

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