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Newcastle coach Ernie Merrick is confident the team is nearing its first win of the season despite a 1-1 A-League draw with Perth.

Newcastle coach Ernie Merrick remains confident the A-League season isn't getting away from the Jets despite not winning a game so far.

Sitting second last on the ladder after four games, the Jets are struggling for goals and desperately need a win to kick-start their campaign.

After Saturday's 1-1 draw with Perth at McDonald Jones Stadium, Merrick said the Jets were nearing their best football and not far off the best teams in the competition.

"We've only played four games - most teams have played five," he said.

"If we keep playing like that, we will win games and the quality of the performance was brilliant."

The Jets have scored just four goals all season, and were again cruelled out of thre competition points with a late goal from the Glory's Diego Castro.

They will face league newcomers Western United on Saturday at GMHBA Stadium and, despite their strong start to the season, Merrick is confident the Jets can win.

"I've had a good look at them (United)," he said.

"As I've said, I don't think there's any team going to break away substantially. I know Melbourne City are at the top of the ladder just now and Western United has had a good start, but I think it will be a very tight competition which is good for the crowds.

"I don't think there's any team that's going to get away.

"The best team we've played so far is Sydney and that was at their home and we didn't play so well. I don't think there's any standout team so far."