The New Zealanders astonished their visitors and United simply had no answer as four goals in 11 second half minutes sealed their fate.

Adelaide United's 6-0 defeat by Melbourne Victory in the 2007 grand final is the only other six-goal defeat in the competition's history.

"I'm chuffed. To me that's got to be one of the best performances in the A-League since it started against a team that have been very good this year," said Herbert.

"I was really pleased with just how clinical we were really. All round the pitch we were tight and tidy and we took the opportunities extremely well. People shifted the ball effectively and it was a real 90 minute performance."

The build up to the match had seen plenty of banter between the respective coaches and it was Miron Bleiberg who was forced to swallow the bitter taste of defeat.

"I think Wellington were much better and deserved their moment of glory or moment in the sun," said Bleiberg.

"They played very well and wanted it more. The fact that after (Saturday) they dropped to the bottom of the ladder gave them a bit of added desperation."

Phoenix now travel to face Sydney FC while Gold Coast will look to pick themselves up when they take on North Queensland Fury.