Newcastle Jets coach Branko Culina feels that last night's opponents Melbourne Victory are the team to beat this season.

The Victory produced a last-gasp goal to take a 2-1 win over the Jets at AAMI Park and Culina is of firm belief that they are a harder side to beat than tear away leaders Brisbane Roar.

"To me they are the yardstick, not Brisbane," he said.

"Brisbane is a good side. If you said to me who is the team you fear most playing in a grand final if we are good enough to play in one - I would say Melbourne Victory any time."

Culina insisted that his Jets are definitely a good side but knows there is plenty of improving to do to ensure finals qualification.

"I know we are a good football team," he added.

"We'll be in the finals, I can assure you about that. We made it last year when we were up against it and were much worse off than this year. I think we've got a better team in spite of all the problems.

"We genuine think we can make the top four, we still have plenty of games left, but you need to pick up the points - today a point would have been OK. You've got to pick up points on the road and we didn't. That's why I'm disappointed."