McKinna believes his team could have got something from each of their last three A-League encounters but instead ended up with nothing.

The latest setback was a last gasp 3-2 defeat by Brisbane Roar, in yet another match that could have ended very differently according to McKinna.

Now McKinna has made it clear he expects better against Sydney FC tomorrow night.

"I did have a go at Matty (Simon) and Kwas (Adam Kwasnik) because of opportunities where they failed to hit the target," McKinna told au.fourfourtwo.com today. 

"A few weeks ago we were very clinical in front of goal but we've started to miss a few crucial opportunities in matches. We need to start being clinical again. Hopefully starting with Sydney."

In defence too, McKinna will expect focus to the very end. He blasted Nicky Travis in the aftermath of the Roar defeat for failing to pick up match-winner Matt McKay.

The Roar game did bring some good news for a Mariners striker with Dylan MacAllister on target for the club and McKinna is hoping that will be a platform for more goals.

"Dylan is one we're looking at (for Sydney FC). He did well, he went out there and of course it's always great for strikers' confidence when they score," said McKinna.

As for their hosts, McKinna knows they will be a tough nut to crack.

"Sydney have had a settled side and they are a well balanced side. They do have players who can cause problems and I'm a big fan of Steve Corica," he said.

McKinna is expected to welcome back both Dean Heffernan and John Hutchinson for the clash at the SFS.

He added "It's school holidays so hopefully there will be a good crowd. We always enjoy going to play there."