Could there be one final twist in the tail for South West Phoenix?

As it stands, the South West Phoenix’s relegation from State league division two was finalised on Saturday following their 5-1 away loss against Balga SC in Perth.

However, there might be one tiny shred of hope left for Gareth Johnston’s men.

“At this stage we are not sure what is going to happen with Football West,” he said. “But we may find out by the end of the week whether we will have a relegation playoff situation between ourselves and either the winner or runner-up of the amateur premier division.

“Really, we just have to sit back, hope and cross everything that we may be having a two-legged playoff in four weeks time.”

Saturday’s defeat capped off a massive fortnight for the Phoenix players, who played five matches in the space of two weeks.

Throw in several trips to Perth, and most of the players working strenuous full-time jobs, and it is little wonder the Phoenix players are gladly enjoying a little bit of a breather, according to the Phoenix boss.

“I cannot fault the boys over the past two weeks,” Johnston said.

“Not only those (who) were in the league squad, but also the reserves, as they had the same schedule. It was disappointing to lose the game 5-1 on Saturday — but anyone at the game who saw it would tell you it was not as bad as the score suggests.”

Johnston, who has moved to Perth for work in the past few months, will not coach the Phoenix next season, but he said he felt his love and support for the club would remain as strong as ever.