Soccer: Phoenix facing tough run to make playoffs

Phoenix coach Ernie Merrick. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Wellington remain three points outside of the top six in the A-League in eighth place. Daniel Richardson looks at their run home.

Tonight: Phoenix v Newcastle Jets, Hunter Stadium, Newcastle.

Breakdown: The Jets are coming off a 3-1 loss to the Central Coast Mariners and sit one place above the Phoenix, so a victory would help Wellington's chances, while also damaging the hopes of a key rival.

Last time they met: The Phoenix went across the Tasman and knocked the Jets over 3-2 in round 18 last month courtesy of a Jason Hicks winner.

Sunday, March 30: Phoenix v Adelaide United, Westpac Stadium, Wellington.

Breakdown: Adelaide are a side who have a new coach this summer and have attempted to implement a new style of play at their club. Josep Gombau has them playing an attractive brand of soccer and they're lethal on attack.

Last time they met: Adelaide destroyed Wellington 5-1 in South Australia in round 21 in one of the worst Phoenix performances of the season although the Phoenix did edge the Reds 2-1 at Eden Park on February 1.

Sunday, April 6: Phoenix v Sydney FC, Allianz Stadium, Sydney.

Breakdown: Sydney blow hot and cold, possibly more than any team in the A-League. Heading into this week's round they had drawn only two of their 23 games; the lowest number in the competition. Generally, when you play the Sky Blues there will be a result either way and given they're hovering around the edge of the top six this will likely be an important fixture for both sides.

Last time they met: Wellington beat Sydney FC 1-0 at the Cake Tin on December 22, which may stand out as one of the most important results from Ernie Merrick's tenure as Phoenix coach given it was their first win under his watch. This victory kick-started the Phoenix's season and while it wasn't a pretty game it provided the dose of confidence Wellington desperately needed.

Saturday, April 12: Phoenix v Melbourne Victory, Westpac Stadium, Wellington.

Breakdown: This game could shape a must-win, a playoff warm-up or a farewell fixture for departing Phoenix players. Given the tight nature of the ladder from second through to ninth, there's a decent chance this game will still have something riding on it and the Victory are a side who back themselves to perform when the pressure is on.

Last time they met: In round 15, Wellington beat a mesmerised Melbourne 5-0 at Westpac in the Phoenix's best game of the season. A repeat could be the perfect way to start a tilt at the playoffs.