While Phoenix had set the target of a playoff spot pre-season, Durante said that was the minimum expectation.

"We're a good team," said Durante. "Not only do we deserve to be in the top six but we know that we're playing for a home semifinal if we can finish in the top four. Gold Coast, Melbourne and Sydney FC have opened up a break at the top of the ladder and are fighting hard for the minor premiership, but we can still overtake Perth Glory in our last two matches and get home advantage for the playoffs.

"That would be an incredible achievement and great for the team. I don't think anyone would fancy their chances against us at Westpac Stadium in Wellington."

First and foremost, however, is beating Gold Coast away on Sunday. The A-League's new boys are locked in a three-way fight to finish the regular season at the top of the ladder but have shown their vulnerability this season - particularly against Phoenix.

The two teams' round 12 match ended in a 1-1 draw on the Glitter Strip before Phoenix thrashed the visitors 6-0 at Westpac Stadium little more than three weeks later in one of the most devastating and comprehensive performances from any team this season.

'This match is going to have plenty on it," added Durante. "Gold Coast are playing for top spot, we're playing for a place in the playoffs and Gold Coast will be desperate to make amends for what happened in Wellington. We were very good that night and they were pretty poor.

" It won't be the same scenario on Sunday but there's no reason why we can't do the job against them again."