A win over Adelaide, and fifth-placed Phoenix could be within touching distance of an historic first finals spot with just a round to go. Three points would be like gold dust.

Much interest will centre on Friday night's Melbourne Victory versus fourth-placed Central Coast clash but Phoenix fans are hopeful that a big crowd at Westpac can give the Kiwis the edge and keep their dream alive.

"It's the most important game in our short history assuming Friday night's game goes according to plan," Yellow Fever's Dale Warburton told au.fourfourtwo.com.

"A win could give Central Coast the jitters and next week, well, who knows?"

Officials are hopeful of a 10,000-plus crowd, particularly after the club pulled over 14,000 for its final home game last year.

"Apart from the obvious benefits a loud home crowd gives a team, a poor turnout may give the impression to the team the season is over," urged the Phoenix fan.

Should Ricki Herbert's side fail in its bid for a finals berth, the match will be the last home game for three hugely popular Phoenix players.

Striker Shane Smeltz is moving to Gold Coast United while keeper Glenn Moss has signed for Victory.

But perhaps even greater emotion will be reserved for Kiwi great Vaughan Coveny's retirement. Coveny, at 37, has enjoyed a wonderful career in Australia's domestic leagues over the last two decades.

Returning last year to his hometown club after spells with Wollongong Wolves, South Melbourne and Newcastle Jets have earned him respect from fans and teammates alike.

And with 77 All-White appearances, Coveny's place in Kiwi footy history is assured. For these reasons, Sunday will be doubly emotional for the fans.

"It's a chance for all Phoenix fans to give Smeltzy, Mossey and Coveny the send off they deserve," said Warburton.

"Vaughan has been a great servant of New Zealand Football. No-one can deny that.

"I for one certainly hope he remains connected with Wellington and New Zealand football in one way or another...and I wouldn't mind seeing him pop up and pinch the winner too."