Wellington Phoenix: We've turned the corner in A League

Roy Krishna of the Wellington Phoenix. Photo / Photosport

It's amazing what a difference a win makes.

Less than a fortnight after the surprise departure of Ernie Merrick, the Wellington Phoenix claim they have turned a corner.

The Phoenix, who will face Western Sydney Wanderers at Mt Smart on Saturday night, haven't done much to earn Santa's goodwill this season.

After assembling probably the best squad the franchise has ever had, they then put together the worst start to a campaign in their history.

That led to the departure of the popular Merrick, though the playing group were equally culpable, with too many individuals not living up to reputations.

Last week's 3-0 win over the Central Coast Mariners was a much needed fillip, and the energetic performance in Hamilton was a typical reaction after a change at the top.

But will it be the start of something, or just a false dawn?

"If we get on a decent run we are still right amongst it," said Kosta Barbarouses. "Looking at the schedule there are still some very winnable games. [There] is no reason why we can't go and win the next two or three games...[it's] something within our reach."

Merrick was a popular figure at the Wellington club - and leaves a good legacy for New Zealand football - especially with his Academy work, his promotion of local talent and the way he reshaped the playing style of the team.

But as with all professional sport, the players have switched focus fast.

"It's hard but we all have to move on," said Krishna. "He was a good coach and all the best for him but 'Greenie' (Chris Greenacre) and Des [Buckingham] are doing a great job so far."

Krishna, who has been one of few bright spots this season with six goals and two assists, admitted it was time for the players to deliver.

"Us players have to step up now and so far we are doing that okay," said Krishna. "The first four games we didn't start well and you have to look in the mirror. The start of the season wasn't great - we had been losing [and] the atmosphere in the changing room wasn't that great but then we started wininng and you can see the smiles back on the face. That gives us some confidence."

The Phoenix remain a work in progress, but there were glimpses of hope last week. There was desperation on defence to earn just their third clean sheet of the season, and a sharper edge to their attack.

Goalscoring is still an issue - they've scored a league low nine goals, with five of those coming in two games against a green Mariners outfit - but the selection of Hamish Watson as target man looks a good move.

"He occupies the two centre backs and gives myself and Roy a bit more space," said Barbarouses. "Not much [else] has changed, defensively we had been quite good, just [our] defensive roles in the front third have changed a little bit."

The Wanderers, who have reached three of the past four A-League finals, haven't hit those heights this season.

They are just two points above the Phoenix on the table, with goals at a premium.

But they have only lost to Sydney and Melbourne Victory, and remain a well balanced, experienced team.