New Striker Scores for Phoenix 3 Days After Arrival

Makala Woods stepped off a plane in Wellington on Wednesday and scored a goal by Saturday, giving her new team exactly what they needed at exactly the right time.

The 23-year-old American forward came to New Zealand to support star striker Sabitra Bhandari. But when Bhandari suffered a season-ending knee injury last weekend, Woods suddenly became the answer to a problem the Wellington Phoenix hadn't planned for.

Coach Brina Priestman threw Woods into Saturday's match against league leaders Melbourne City at halftime, despite the young striker not playing since October. Down 2-0, the Phoenix needed a spark.

Woods delivered in the 90th minute with a thundering header off a deep cross from Brooke Nunn. Though her team lost 2-1, her arrival on the field changed everything about how the Phoenix attacked.

"Her last game was in October and she's been with us for three days, but if that's what she puts out after that, I'm really happy with the signing," Priestman told reporters after the match. Woods became a handful for Melbourne's defense the moment she entered the game.

The Phoenix are holding onto sixth place in the A-League Women standings, and they've been hit hard this season. Three players are out with season-ending knee injuries, and captain CJ Bott missed the Melbourne match with a knock.

Why This Inspires

Woods could have asked for more time to adjust after traveling halfway around the world. She could have cited rust from not playing in months or unfamiliarity with her new teammates. Instead, she showed up ready to contribute when her team needed her most.

Priestman is now considering starting Woods in next Saturday's tough away match against second-place Canberra United. It's a quick turnaround for someone who just arrived, but Woods has already proven she doesn't need much time to make an impact.

Sometimes the best thing you can do is just show up and give what you have. For Woods, three days was enough to score her first goal and give the Phoenix hope for the second half of their season.