Following the superb 90-minute performance against Gold Coast United, Herbert was rightfully disappointed that his team took only managed to hit top gear in the second half.
 
"There was 20-minute spell in the first half where things didn't go well for us and we got done. It was chalk and cheese, really, in terms of our performance from the first half and in the second," he said.
 
"That's an important issue for us to address. We played well in the second half and got on the front foot, which is what we should've done from the start."
 
Herbert said Phoenix's intention had been to absorb the early pressure from Sydney FC before ramping up their own. That seemed a solid and effective ploy till Sydney's pacy front men were able to capitalise on several uncharacteristic defensive lapses.
 
"When you come to a place like Sydney you've got to be mindful," said Herbert. "Our intention was to keep ourselves in the game and we thought that we could come over the top. Sydney have been vulnerable at the back end of games and we saw that again tonight."
 
Phoenix now look forward to returning home for their next two A-League 2009/10 fixtures. However, it will be a busy time for the Wellingtonians and a real test of the squad's depth, with games against the Newcastle Jets on Wednesday and Perth Glory on Sunday.
 
"We'll be back on a plane straight back to Wellington where we'll back up on Wednesday," added Herbert. "There's not a lot of time between games but it'll be good to be back home."
 
Only Mark Paston will be in doubt for Wednesday night's game against the Jets. Should the New Zealand international be ruled out, young reserve keeper Reece Crowther will be called on to start.