Soccer: Phoenix to play games in Auckland

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Auckland fans have a rare chance to see the Wellington Phoenix in action when the A-League side plays two games here this month.

New Zealand Football yesterday confirmed the matches against the New Zealand under-20 team on the eve of their departure for their World Cup in Colombia and against ASB Premiership champions Waitakere United three days later.

The Phoenix will play Chris Milicich's Junior All Whites at North Harbour Stadium on July 17 at 2pm and the Waitakere United invitational side at Trusts Stadium on July 20 at 7.30pm.

Both matches are seen as important for all involved with the national under-20s due to leave for their World Cup the day after their game while Waitakere coach Neil Emblen will use his match as a part of his build-up to the new ASB Premiership season, which kicks off on October 23, and Waitakere's O-League campaign which starts a week later.

For Milicich the game with the Phoenix will be a chance to put out his Australia and New Zealand-based players against quality opposition.

"The players will get the chance to play at an intense, quicker level of football than they are used to which is crucial to our preparation," said Milicich. "It gives us a hit-out at a level similar to what we will face at the World Cup."

For his players it will also be the chance to impress Herbert who has yet to name his three young players in the Phoenix squad.

"We are in the early part of our preparation and playing against the New Zealand under-20 team is a good opportunity to see how we are progressing," said Herbert, who watched his team beat Miramar Rangers 2-0 in a first-up training game on Wednesday night.

Herbert will bring a full-strength squad north - apart from injured left back Tony Lochhead. Included in the squad will be new signings Lucas Pantelis and Jimmy Downey with a number of trialists still pressing for places in the A-League side.

New Zealand Football are keen to promote the match at North Harbour Stadium as a family-friendly affair by opting for an afternoon kick-off and making the occasion alcohol-free.

"It is a great opportunity to take the Phoenix brand outside Wellington," said Herbert.

Waitakere will strengthen their squad with some invitational players as they could have three or four players in the World Cup squad which will be named by Milicich on Monday.