Phoenix had a bye in round one and will kick off their campaign against United this weekend.

Durante had been expecting more from Bleiberg's men in their derby clash against Brisbane Roar but he is taking nothing for granted and wary of a backlash.

"They weren't as impressive as I thought they might be; they were a little bit behind the eight-ball for most of the match," he told the Dominion Post.

"Hopefully they'll come here to Wellington and struggle again, but I'm sure Miron Bleiberg would've got stuck into them and they'll be gunning for a better performance this time around."

In other Phoenix news, Indonesian striker Bambang Pamungkas has ended his trial with Phoenix and returned home to Jakarta.

Coach Ricki Herbert added: "We thank Bambang for all his efforts during his trial with us and wish him all the best for his football career."