^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Nix could become the junior team to Auckland .... the derby would be great ....
It would be a massive boost for NZ football, without any doubt.
An A League game in NZ every week (presuming they could arrange the draw that way), and 2-3 derbies a season could really catch the sporting focus over the summer months.
For me will be really interesting how big crowds are at Eden Park, for both Nix games this season. Esp if Nix ain't going that well. Game against Victory in Feb earlier this year, was almost perfect timing. Phoenix on roll, Kiwis like Singh & Cacace starring, balmy Friday night etc. How many will turn up, if things not going so well. I'm sure some at NZF will be watching closely. What's the public appetite for an Auckland A League side, and is EP the best venue to base a side.
Also is there enough football player depth in NZ for a 2nd team? I think so, but will be esp interesting to see how guys like McCowatt, TAWH & Payne go stepping up from the Handy Prem. All Aucklanders to boot.
Funding obviously shapes as a massive hurdle. Lots of chatter but no Weenix equivalent group, or rich Auckland football tragic has appeared on the horizon yet.
Plus NZF appears a long way away at the moment, from being in a state to offer any meaningful support.