The A-League's "high price tag" is set to see Canberra miss out on the chance to host professional football this season "after a deal with the Wellington Phoenix fell over," according to Chris Dutton of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. It is understood the Phoenix "was in negotiations to shift a home game to the capital" to play against the Western Sydney Wanderers at Canberra Stadium in January. However, the Phoenix and ACT government could not reach an agreement and the game is set to be "scrapped from the A-League schedule." News of the failed Phoenix bid comes as the government "edges closer" to finalizing details for a Big Bash League cricket clash at Manuka Oval next year. A government spokesperson said that officials would continue to search for professional football content for fans after the Central Coast Mariners "opted not to return to the capital this year." The Phoenix has been "mooted as the perfect partner for Canberra." There have also been talks about W-League side Canberra United "joining forces with the Phoenix to give New Zealand female players a pathway to the W-League" (SMH, 10/1).
