OUTGOING Central Coast Mariners boss Lawrie McKinna believes Wellington Phoenix have all the necessary ingredients to be a serious threat in the finals series over the next month.
McKinna's last match in charge ended with the Mariners slumping to a 3-0 defeat at Westpac Stadium, a venue that has proved a nightmare for opposing teams this season.
"Since they've been in the league it's always a hard place to come," said McKinna.
"With the momentum they've got, they've got boys who can finish, good defenders, so they've got a good balanced team, and they've got a bit of flair there as well.
"They are not just a hard-working team that slog it out. They've got a bit of razzle-dazzle as well.
"It's a hard place to come and play. The conditions, wind, and the crowd get behind them and give them great support."
Meanwhile, Phoenix skipper Andrew Durante cannot wait for the semi-final clash against Perth Glory.
"It's been a whole team effort," Durante said. "It's not just about the back four and Liam (Reddy). It's about the whole squad doing their part.
"(Chris Greenacre) works his backside off, Ifill got back tonight and Leo (Bertos) was deeper than me at times making some crucial tackles. It's a whole team effort.
"We've just been really solid all year. It's been a fantastic year. Ten wins, 10 draws and seven losses, I think that says everything.
"It's been good so far but the job's not done. It's the semi-finals now and we've got to take this run into the semis."
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