Football: Nix look to stop the rot

Recent losses have been a wake-up call, says Phoenix keeper Glen Moss. Photo / Getty Images

Suddenly, the Phoenix seem to have a few issues.

They have conceded six goals in their last two games, both on home turf. They haven't scored in more than 200 minutes of football and have slipped from their table-topping position.

In a way, it shows how far they have come - and how much expectations have risen under coach Ernie Merrick, as they have already exceeded their record points total for a season with three games to play.

So is this the start of a fade or a temporary blip? The answer is probably somewhere in between. Even when they were top of the table, their squad depth compared to the other main contenders meant injuries or suspension could change things quickly. And their last two defeats have come against two of the A-League's form teams.

"We are not happy at all about the last two games but if you want to be positive, it's a good wake-up call," said goalkeeper Glen Moss. "It's best that it happens now and not in the playoffs. We've already had a pretty good season but obviously we want a lot more so we need to fix some things."

The return of Albert Riera today will help with the repair job. Just like last season, the Spaniard has been arguably the most valuable member of the squad in this campaign. His workrate, anticipation and vision, in and out of possession, provide the Phoenix with a defensive bedrock and a platform to attack that was missing last week.

Another concern has been their defence from set pieces. Usually noted for their strength in that area - with the long-term combination of Moss, Ben Sigmund and Andrew Durante - their defending of corners and free kicks has been poor recently, with sloppy goals conceded against Sydney and Melbourne Victory.

"It's been disappointing," said Moss. "Our structure and formation has been OK, so it is just down to how we react, having guys switching on at the right time. We haven't been winning the first balls, the second balls or the third balls, so that makes it pretty tough."

However, despite the recent setbacks, Moss said the team remain positive and refuted suggestions of any extra tension in the ranks, after Durante was seen stepping in at training last week to separate two of his team-mates. Vince Lia was aggrieved after a heavy Alex Rodriguez tackle and momentarily squared up to the Spaniard before being ushered away by his captain.

"I'd like to say it was another Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao but it was nothing really," said Moss. "It happens every now and again. I've seen it throughout my career. If anything, it's a good sign, as it means players are training with intensity."

The Phoenix will need a strong presence today against a Melbourne City side known for a physical approach.

Former Socceroo striker Josh Kennedy caused problems in the most recent clash at the Hutt Recreation Ground and the Victorian team will be looking to maintain their advantage on the table over the Brisbane Roar.

They have been in good recent form, with three wins in a four-match unbeaten run, but don't have a good record against the Phoenix, with only one win in the 10 encounters.

The match has taken on extra significance since Perth Glory's recent exclusion from the playoffs due to salary cap breaches, and today's game could be a preview of a possible semifinal.