Murdocca has been ruled out with a groin strain sustained late in Sunday's 5-1 thrashing of Central Coast Mariners.

Roar coach Ange Postecoglou played down the severity of the injury but said the short turnaround meant the jockey-sized workhorse would be overlooked.

"Massimo pulled up a bit sore after the game with a groin strain," the Roar boss said today. "This game, with only a four-day break, probably came a bit too quickly for him."

Youngster Luke Brattan will replace Murdocca in the Roar squad for the trip to Melbourne.

Victory are the only side to have beaten Brisbane this season, a 3-0 triumph in September at the same venue.

Roar have since gone on an A-League record 14 game unbeaten run after that defeat.