While the Wellington Phoenix had to fight for a 2-2 draw against the Western Sydney Wanderers FC at Mt Smart Stadium in December, Hamilton’s Dylan Francis walked away from the game a winner thanks to some slick playmaking from Satan’s Little Helper.
Dylan has mild Asperger’s, which affects social interaction, and lost his father to cancer at a young age. After hearing the 12-year-old’s story from his stepfather Matt Faber, HELL organized a special package for the keen football fan. Along with four tickets to the Mt Smart match, Dylan was given a training ball signed by the Phoenix squad and the chance to meet some of his favourite players after the final whistle; this included having his photo taken with captain Andrew Durante and his jersey signed by midfielder Adam Parkhouse. Matt said Dylan had a fantastic time and was stoked to receive this special treat from HELL. “He was all smiles and just had an absolute blast; it was a great boost for him.” To top it off, Matt said it was a good game to watch, with the Phoenix knocking in two late goals to even the score. “And I have to say, the first Wanderers’ goal [scored by Brendon Santalab] was one of the best I’ve seen in the A-League for a long time!”