Soccer: Herbert aims to improve away record

Ricki Herbert is banned to the stands. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Ricki Herbert has no qualms in handing the reins to his faithful assistant, Luciano Trani, when the Wellington Phoenix play Gold Coast United at Skilled Park tonight, saying "it will be all sorted beforehand".

Herbert can take no active role in the Hyundai A-League week 18 match as he serves a one-match ban following an incident late in last Sunday's 2-1 win over Adelaide United, where he copped a three-match ban that was later reduced to one on appeal.

"I'll just go and sit in the stand," said Herbert. "I can do the team talk before the game, but he [Trani] will run it from the bench."

Among the things Trani will look after will be the substitutions, with Marco Rojas again likely to play a key role, probably in the second half.

In the only change from Sunday's winning squad, Leo Bertos returns from injury to replace lively midfielder Nick Ward, who is out for a few weeks with a knee injury.

Understandably, Herbert wants to stay as close to the status quo as he can.

"Overall, I thought that was the most complete game we have played this season," said Herbert. "Adelaide is a side you can benchmark yourself against. In the last couple of weeks we have been a lot better and tidier with the ball. Generally, we have been a lot tighter but, having said that, I'm sure we can improve even further."

One huge plus has been defender Ben Sigmund who has switched from his preferred central role to right back.

"I sat down with Siggy before the game and we talked things through. He said it was not his strongest role but would give it all he could in the best interests of the team. You saw what he did. His dedication and application is unquestioned.

"He gives you everything," said Herbert. "In his time at the club he has given 100 per cent every time he has played. While Jade North and Andrew Durante are playing centrally, I can see Ben staying there."

Gold Coast will be a big step up for the Phoenix.

In third place - two places and eight points ahead of the Phoenix - Gold Coast will also be fully aware of the Phoenix's poor away record.

Overall though, the Phoenix are slightly ahead in the head-to-head record, with two wins to one and two drawn.

All Whites and former Phoenix goalkeeper Glen Moss returns after being sidelined with an ankle injury. Also back for the Coast are Steve Pantelidis, Michael Thwaite and Zenon Caravella.

In the most anticipated game of the round, Sydney FC, still out of play-off contention, tomorrow host high-flying Brisbane Roar, who set an A-League record with their 15th undefeated game in snatching that 3-3 draw with Melbourne Victory.

A-League

Gold Coast United v Wellington Phoenix
* Skilled Park, 11.15 tonight (live SS1)
* Referee: Allan Millinerby