Having come under criticism for their defeat in Adelaide in Round 3, Herbert's side was under pressure to get its season on track and to replicate the form that saw it progress to the Pre-Season Cup grand final.

"Today was real heart on the sleeve stuff, about getting back to basics again and being competitive ... it's given us a platform to start from," Herbert said.

The Phoenix defence in particular had come under fire as the side came into the match having conceded seven goals in their last two outings in the competition.

Herbert indicated that keeping a clean sheet was an area of focus for his side in the match.

"Obviously, we've come into the match after conceding seven goals in two games, but we've got decent players at the back and tonight we were a lot hungrier right across the park."

Phoenix skipper Andrew Durante agreed with Herbert's assessment, and was particularly pleased with the commitment and dedication that his side showed under pressure.

"A couple of weeks ago we didn't show any heart or ticker, whereas tonight there was loads of it all across the park," he said.

"We wanted to show that we have some commitment and discipline, and show that we're proud to wear the Phoenix shirt. I think we showed that tonight."