Soccer: Improvement sought for Sydney clash

Ricki Herbert is taking scant notice of the 3-0 win his Wellington Phoenix scored over Sydney FC in the Pre-Season Cup as he prepares for tonight's A-League clash at the Sydney Football Stadium.

"We will always look to improve on that but at the same time we know they will be in the same frame of mind," said Herbert. "They have had a disappointing start to their season so we know they will be chasing a [first] win. But we also realise if we are to get our first win [in the league] there are things we know we have to do better, especially in front of goal. We are creating chances but not finishing them."

Herbert is set to name the same starting XI for this game as that which took the field for last Sunday's home game with Newcastle Jets. The only changes have come on the bench with goalkeeper Mark Paston getting one step closer to a return after recovering from concussion. Brazilian midfielder George comes in for striker Royce Brownlie.

In other found four action, leaders Central Coast Mariners face Melbourne Victory on Sunday while Newcastle are away to Adelaide United tomorrow. Perth have their third home game when they play Queensland Roar on Sunday.