Phoenix to play Jets after penalty shootout wins

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SYDNEY, Feb 21, 2010 (AFP) - New Zealand's Wellington Phoenix will play the Newcastle Jets in a knockout semi-final after a weekend of dramatic penalty shootout victories in the Australian A-League.

The Phoenix, roared on by a 24,000 home crowd, edged out Perth Glory 4-2 on penalties after their playoff was locked at 1-1 after extra time on Sunday.

Former Manchester City striker Chris Greenacre put Wellington ahead in the 37th minute before Scott Neville's equalising header in the 67th minute.

Phoenix goalkeeper Liam Reddy saved attempts by Naum Sekulovski and Scott Bulloch before Adrian Caceres slotted home the winning penalty for Wellington.

Wellington will again have home advantage against the Newcastle Jets in the sudden-death playoff in a fortnight.

The Jets ousted Gold Coast United in another penalty shoot-out on Saturday to stay alive for this year's A-League's title.

Goalkeeper Ben Kennedy was Newcastle's hero with a one-handed save to deny Zenon Caravella's attempt as the Jets won 6-5 on penalties after it was scoreless following extra time.

Defending champions Melbourne Victory will take a 2-1 first leg advantage from last Thursday's major semi victory to Sydney FC for the second leg on March 7.