The Wellington Phoenix aren't afraid to mix it with the A-League's top sides, having registered a new club record eight games unbeaten, coach Mark Rudan says.
Having been 2-0 down against the Central Coast Mariners in Wellington last night, Rudan's side clawed their way back for a 3-2 win, seeing them to fifth place on the overall A-League ladder.
Addressing media after the win though, Rudan made it clear that he's expecting more from the high-flying Nix, and with matches against the A-League's top four sides on the horizon, the side are confident of keeping their run alive.
The Nix will look to add an eighth straight game without defeat this weekend.
"You only have to look at our record," he began.
"How many of those top four teams have beaten us - apart from Melbourne City, and that was Melbourne City when we were in a different place altogether?
"Perth, we took the lead, didn't beat us. Sydney FC, we beat them away from home. Melbourne Victory, we took it all the way, we could have beaten them as well.
"We'll take anyone on, we don't fear anyone.
"It a tough schedule coming up, but like I said, all I'm thinking about is not the four games, it's Melbourne Victory, that's it."
The Australian manager also spoke about what his side's record run means to him personally, quickly deflecting any praise his team's way.
"I don't necessarily work for records, but they are nice.
"One of the things the players wanted to do this season was create history. Before the game, I told them that you've got the ability to knock off one little piece of history today, and they did that."
The Phoenix are next in action against the Melbourne Victory away on January 20.
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