Wellington Phoenix are heading back to the capital with wind in their sails, as they prepare for their return to their spiritual headquarters.
While they'll miss youngster Sam Sutton, who tested positive for COVID-19 before Wednesday's 1-0 win over Perth Glory, no shortage of friends and family will head to Sky Stadium on Sunday to watch them take on Central Coast Mariners.
Their win over the Glory moved the Phoenix up to fifth on the A-League ladder, as they push for a berth in the playoffs.
The Sails have dropped everything to see son Oli - one of the standouts in goal this season for the Phoenix - play at home for the first time in nearly a year.
"We were meant to be going to the Bay of Islands for Easter holiday, but as soon as the Phoenix said they were coming home, we were like 'No, we are going to Wellington'," said parents Tony and Pip Sail.
Filling their son's void for the last week has been injured captain Alex Rufer, who's recovering from his season-ending ACL surgery under the Sails' roof.
"I don't know if they'd want another son, but I think, for this week, I have been," laughed Rufer. "I'm really grateful.
"I'm just really excited to see the boys again, so hopefully, they can put on a good show and get the 'W'."
Midfielder Clayton Lewis is also back in Auckland, receiving treatment for an ankle injury.
"I get to go see my family, which is quite nice," said Lewis. "But the main reason for everyone coming back is obviously we've got a job to do on Sunday, so hopefully the crowd comes out.
More than 24,000 fans turned out to show their support when the Phoenix returned last season and Wellington will hope to improve on that this weekend.
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