Victory went into the Sunday night match in fourth place and two points clear of Adelaide United but they now have some breathing space heading into next week's final round, when they take on runaway ladder leaders Sydney FC.

Melbourne looked as if they would come away empty-handed against the last-placed Phoenix before two late goals.

In the 83rd minute, young substitute striker Kenny Athiu was brought down in the box by Wellington's Dylan Fox, with Leroy George slotting the equaliser.

Four minutes later, Athiu dived for a header into the back of the net after a beautiful ball from James Troisi to seal the win for the home side.

Phoenix's goal came in the first half off a Victory own goal, scored by veteran Leigh Broxham.

The left back became tangled with Wellington's Thomas Doyle and threw a foot out to try to clear the ball only for it to land in the net.

Returning from their midweek Asian Champions League loss in South Korea, Melbourne looked flat in the opening half while Phoenix appeared hungry to avoid the wooden spoon.

Victory keeper Lawrence Thomas saved his team blushes when he put a glove to shots by Roy Krishna and Matt Ridenton.

Similarly at the other end, attacking ace Besart Berisha had the best chance for the home side with a stinging shot from half-volley but Phoenix goalkeeper Oliver Sail was on the mark.

Victory fired up the tempo in the second half, bringing on skipper Carl Valeri and Dutchman George, but they continued to waste their chances.

Phoenix's poor night was complete when Alex Rufer earned a straight red card in the 93rd minute for lashing out with his foot at Terry Antonis.