APIA lose Powell to Phoenix

PS4 NPL NSW Men’s 1 side APIA Leichhardt Tigers will have to contend with life without their leading marksman as Blake Powell completed his signing with Hyundai A-League outfit Wellington Phoenix after a successful trial.

Powell has had an outstanding season with the Tigers as the former Sydney FC striker has banged in an incredible 21 goals and is currently smashing the PS4 NPL NSW Men’s 1 goalscorer’s charts.

Powell, 24, had two seasons with Sydney FC between 2012 and 2014 and was part of their Asian Champions League squad before losing his place following a knee operation. He has been signed on a one-year contract with an option for a further year.

Powell said he was very excited to get another opportunity to play in the Hyundai A-League and was looking forward to the challenge.

“Ernie Merrick has given me another chance at that level and it is up to me to repay him by scoring goals which is something I love doing,” Powell said.

“I got to know the Phoenix boys on the pre-season trip to Fiji and they are a great bunch.”

Merrick said the striker had impressed him while trialling during the Fiji trip and felt he would fit into the squad well.

“Blake has the technical ability and speed and has had A-League experience with Sydney,” Merrick said.

“His effort and commitment in Fiji was first class and he enjoys scoring goals as shown by him being the leading goal scorer in the PS4 National Premier League NSW Men’s 1 this season.

“He hasn’t been signed as a No 1 striker and will have to earn his place, but I have a good feeling about him.”

Powell will arrive in Wellington later this month.