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Wellington were out to gain some crucial points to keep their finals aspirations alive whilst Victory were looking for their fifth consecutive win in a season where they have been as consistent as Matthew Breeze's refereeing.
The Phoenix out-classed, out-played, out-ran and out-committed a Melbourne side who were missing Thompson (injury) Kruse (Socceroos) and Muscat (rested). To be frank, Wellington were as good as Melbourne were bad.
Wellington, who were missing Ifill through injury, did everything bar find the net in the opening 45 minutes. They completely controlled the midfield and left the Victory defense in tatters.
Frustrated, Ernie Merrick turned to his bench only 35 minutes into the game, bringing on the returning Danny Allsopp for the under performing Marvin Angulo. It was to little avail, however, as Wellington continued to control the ball, leaving Allsopp with little to no chance of gaining service.
The second half was much a continuation of the first only this time the Phoenix were able to find the net twice, through Dylan Macallister in the 67th and Marco Rojas on 72 minutes.
Rojas, in what was his breakout performance, was outstanding and ran rings around the opposition midfield and defense and made Tom Pondlejak look every bit of his 34 years.
Victory were only spared an embarrassing loss through 'keeper Petkovic, who was called on to make a number of saves throughout the game.
Melbourne must now regroup for their grudge game against Adelaide on Sunday at AAMI park whilst Wellington travel to Gosford on Sunday for their game against the Central Coast Mariners