While Ross has fond memories of his time as Phoenix skipper, younger brother John's role as Sydney captain means a spot on the fence for the Preliminary Final.

Sydney have home advantage and will be smarting after losing out to Melbourne Victory but Phoenix are full of confidence and know what it takes to win at the SFS.

"Obviously I'm supporting my brother John but I also have a lot of close ties with Wellington," a diplomatic Ross told au.fourfourtwo.com today. "I don't think there will be a lot of goals as both teams can be difficult to break down.

"Sydney can score goals through John, Brosque and Bridge but the chances need to be created. Do Sydney do that enough? How many crosses into the box turn into genuine chances?

"As for Wellington, Paul Ifill has scored important goals, Chris Greenacre works very hard  and in Tim Brown you have a midfielder who likes to get forward and score goals."

Aloisi senior believes Phoenix have been 'outstanding' this year, both on the pitch and off it. He has joined the ever-growing list of people queuing up to praise club officials.

"Terry Serepisos, Tony Pignata (CEO), Ricki Herbert and his coaching staff have all helped this club grow in the three years and we see the support out there for Phoenix," he said. "It's tremendous."

As for this weekend's challenge, it is too close to call for Ross.

He added: "Phoenix have been to Sydney and won before, I was captain the first time it happened, so that is a plus for them going into the match. They know it can be done.

"Sydney will look to put the pressure on, being at home, but as I said I think it's a pretty even one and I can see it going to extra time."