The visitors were full value for their 1-1 draw at Etihad Stadium but the Phoenix coach felt it should have been even better.

"Really it was a continuation of what we showed against Adelaide the previous week (a 1-1 draw at Westpac Stadium). We had Melbourne under pressure but we lacked the clinical finish at critical times," said Herbert.
 
"Getting a point isn't a bad result for us by any means, but we came here with the intent of getting the win and that's what we worked toward.

"In our past two seasons we probably might have come here with the mindset of getting a point, to locks things down and minimise the risk, but I thought we were very good value for the win this time."

Herbert, in charge of the All Whites for their 3-1 win against Jordan in Amman on Thursday morning, said  Phoenix's preparation for the match at Etihad had been difficult but that the international contingent and the remainder of the squad the remained in Wellington had pulled together superbly. 

Herbert added: "There were a few tired players put there but they all contributed extremely well. (Assistant coaches) Luciano Trani and Jonathan Gould had balance of the squad in top-notch shape for the match and, although it's never easy in those sorts of circumstances, I was impressed by how things came together, as per our gameplan.
 
"Tim Brown and Vince Lia are forming an excellent combination in midfield, Daniel's back to top form and fitness and Paul Ifill continues to show he's going to torment defenders in this competition.

"We're tracking very well but we do need to work on being more clinical with the chances we're creating."

Next up for Phoenix is a home clash against North Queensland Fury.