23 Nov 2025

Football: Teenage sensation creates history in win for Wellington Phoenix women

7:12 pm on 23 November 2025
Phoenix Pia Vlok during the A-League Women - Wellington Phoenix FC v Newcastle Jets at Porirua Park, Wellington,  on the 16 November 2025. © Copyright image by Marty Melville / www.photosport.nz

Pia Vlok,17, has become the youngest-ever goalscorer for Wellington Phoenix women. Photo: Marty Melville

Wellington Phoenix women are on the board in the A-League, thanks to a 38th-minute goal from teenage star Pia Vlok.

Wellington defeated heavyweights Melbourne Victory 1-0 at Porirua Park on Sunday afternoon in their third match of the 2025/26 season.

Vlok's goal makes her the youngest-ever scorer for the Phoenix women, beating Milly Clegg's record by one day.

The 17-year-old netted from the back post, after a sweeping move downfield from the Phoenix attack.

Vlok's heroics in her second start for Wellington secured the team's first win of the campaign.

She made her debut against Newcastle last week, impressing coach Bev Priestman enough to earn a second successive start.

Originally from Auckland, Vlok, signed a three-year deal with Wellington last August.

After a Round One bye, the Phoenix drew twice, before claiming victory in their third match.

The Wellington side are in the top six for the first time this season, up to fifth, two points behind leaders Newcastle Jets.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs

We have regular online commentary of local and international sport.