Melbourne Victory coach Ernie Merrick will go on the attack in tonight's must-win Asian Champion League match against Kawasaki Frontale. The Victory, who were beaten in Saturday night's A-League Grand Final by Sydney FC, have not taken a point from their opening two ACL matches and desperately need a win to remain in alive in the competition.

Merrick realises this and will go out with an attacking mentality, as he always does.

"Melbourne Victory is known in Australia for their attacking play. Every season apart from one we have been the highest goal-scorers in the league. So, we want to play to that, we are not here to defend or play for a draw. We are here to attack for a win," said Merrick.

"Our schedule has been very difficult but we haven't played as we can do.

"I am surprised how well our players are feeling. The players are feeling good after having a run. We should have almost our strongest side out."

However, Merrick did err on the side of caution when assessing the quality of players he was about to come up against.

"They have some good players. Obviously, their coach has the team well organised," he added.

(Jong) Tae-se is a good striker, and (Junichi) Inamoto, who was with Arsenal, is a good player so we are aware of their team.

"We know they are technically very good and well-organised and fast but our focus is always on how we play and our style of our game."