By Mark Geenty of NZPA

Wellington, Feb 17 NZPA - Brimming with confidence, Wellington Phoenix marksman Paul Ifill today focused the microscope on Perth Glory and the nightmare road trip they face for Sunday's A-League soccer knockout playoff.

Ifill fronted the media at the club's Newtown training base talking up his side's chances at Westpac Stadium, and making pointed reference to one of the longest away trips of any domestic football league.

The Glory were reportedly scheduled to depart Perth early tomorrow (NZT), and arrive in Wellington in mid-afternoon after nearly eight hours in the air and a stopover in between.

"It's obviously a trip they don't really want to make and they've been making a lot of noise about that," Ifill said.

"I think we would make the same if we were going the other way, so that's probably detrimental to them and hopefully it works in our favour."

Perth have never won in Wellington, while the Phoenix have also struggled on Australia's west coast, with a 0-2 defeat there on January 22. They followed up with an embarrassing 0-4 loss in Melbourne before embarking on a three-match winning streak which vaulted them to fourth and earned hosting rights for this weekend.

"It is tough. I found it hard going over there. We went with what we thought were plenty of days to get used to it and I felt terrible during the game," Ifill said.

"That's the joys of finishing fourth, we get the home tie and it's unfortunate for them."

The English import has proved his worth at the business end of the season, scoring three times in their past two matches, wins over Gold Coast and Central Coast.

And if a quiet wager on Sunday's outcome was a possibility, Ifill was quick to provide a tip.

"I really fancy our chances, so it's exciting times."

He should know about playoffs football, having played seven years with English club Millwall, during which the highlight was the 2004 FA Cup final against Manchester United.

While Sunday's forecast crowd of close to 20,000 -- which would be a Phoenix club record -- is a slight step down, Ifill said he was grateful to have a realistic chance of going all the way this time.

"It was a bit different because we were turning up for a day out and we knew, barring a miracle, we were going to get beaten. So the (FA Cup) semifinal was our final, really.

"This is what I came here for, to try and win trophies, so we've got a chance and it starts this weekend."

Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata reported 2000 tickets were snapped up in just a few hours this morning and he was hopeful of breaking the 20,000 barrier in the 34,500-capacity stadium.

Coach Ricki Herbert reported a full squad to choose from this week, despite Vince Lia and Tony Lochhead both sitting out training as precautions. Both would be considered for selection, he said.

Herbert wasn't shying away from the favourite's tag, saying the home side in any Wellington-Perth clash had the advantage.

And there were few signs of nerves as the Phoenix contemplate their first playoff.

"I feel really relaxed about it. It's great we're there, we're a good chance. We go in with confidence off the back of three wins, no goals conceded, we're at home so why wouldn't we be confident?

"If I'm relaxed then hopefully the players will be," Herbert said.