Soccer Revolution

Rugby will always be the number one sport in New Zealand but soccer is starting to create a notable presence. 888sport has noticed that the interest in soccer betting has dramatically increased over the last few weeks corresponding with improving form of the Wellington Phoenix.

Many kiwi sports’ lovers were sceptical when a New Zealand A-League soccer franchise was proposed. The Super 14 and NRL competitions feature great New Zealand teams but they are sports that are firmly entrenched in the sporting culture. Soccer is a totally different kettle of fish. It’s not a sport that Kiwi’s have traditionally played or supported that much.

The Australian A-League was also a gamble from an Australian perspective. Australian soccer had tried numerous times in the past to create a national competition but had consistently failed because of poor management and divisive ethnic allegiances from the clubs. Once they cleaned the slate and started from scratch they were able to get the formula right.

This rejuvenation paid off and the A-League is here to say. Not only have they lured international superstars like Robbie Flower and Andy Cole to the competition, they seem to have got their timing right by playing it outside the already full winter football schedule. Wellington was an interesting choice for the headquarters of the New Zealand operation. They didn’t have the population of Auckland but the A-League made the decision based on demographics and the judgment has been a good one.

The primary reason that this inclusion has worked is that the Phoenix is actually a competitive team. It has taken them a few years to make their mark but now they are playing exciting football, scoring plenty of goals and most importantly winning games. The crowds will continue to grow and community support will continue to get behind the team that is showing they are a serious threat to the front runners in the competition.

888sport has always supported local New Zealand sports and you will always be able to get behind the Phoenix at 888sport. They have already powered their way into fourth position and some lucky Kiwi punters are laughing all the way to the bank as they are on a hot winning streak.