Phoenix soar in to second

The Wellington Phoenix have notched back-to-back wins to jump to second in the A-League.

Goals to Joel Griffiths and Nathan Burns in the last 15 minutes helped the hosts beat Adelaide United 2-0 at the Hutt Rec.

Coach Ernie Merrick says Griffiths' goal was huge.

"He just knows where to be when it counts. Scored a goal then we started to play football and there was some good championship football."

Coach Ernie Merrick says the margin could've been more.

"I think we're unlucky not to score another goal, get three goals.

"But a clean sheet, two goals against a good team - I'm pretty happy with that result."

The Phoenix are now just a point adrift of the league-leading Perth Glory after their 1-1 draw with the Melbourne Victory.