Wellington Phoenix are staying patient and preparing for a run of fixtures that could define their A-League season.
"Picking up points against these teams is massive for us," says Alex Rufer, who will return from a one-match suspension this week, after he was sent during a draw against Macarthur FC.
The Phoenix face top-of-the-table Central Coast Mariners twice, as well as defending champions Sydney FC in the next three matches.
"We need to start picking up points and picking up good results, so these games are very, very important," says Rufer
Sitting last on the A-League ladder, the 'Nix are without a win in their opening three games, but Rufer and his side are staying optimistic.
"We believe in how we are set up to play," says Rufer. "I think the main thing is that we stay patient and positive."
One thing plaguing them has been their finishing - they've recorded 57 shots this season, the third most in the competition, but have only managed three goals.
"The strikers we've got... I have every confidence that they are going to, hopefully this weekend, bang a couple in," says Rufer.
They were in a similar position this time last year, losing their first four games, and they're taking inspiration, after recovering to finish third.
"We came right and we will come right," says Rufer. "We believe, as a team, we will come through this.
"We will come right and I feel sorry for the team who has to cop it."
The Phoenix hope that turnaround comes soon, rather then later.
