Newcastle Jets coach Branko Culina is hoping his side can conjure an early goal in the A-League knockout semi-final on Sunday.

The Jets are taking on the Wellington Phoenix at their home ground Westpac Stadium in front of about 34,500 Wellingtonians and Culina is aware that the crowd could have a big advantage for the home side unless they are silenced early.

"There is no doubt it will help the home side," Culina said.

"The important thing for us is to start the game well and not allow the crowd to play a part.

"If we can silence them early by, hopefully, scoring a goal or dominating the game, it will work in our favour. That way we keep them quiet.

"On the other hand if they dominate early and score, it could be a hard day at the office for us."

Culina said that the two-week break following the dour struggle against Gold Coast United in which the Jets emerged victorious after a penalty shootout will hold his side in good stead.

"This game will be all about getting on top," Culina added.

"Against the Gold Coast we wanted to weather the storm.

"Physically there was a question mark about us. We had four or five players coming back from injury who weren't 100 per cent.

"The two-week break in between games has given us a chance with some of the players to get a bit of fitness. We will be better prepared."