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Josh Brillante says Melbourne City's loss to Brisbane is the wake-up call they need and the A-League leaders must be more switched on going forward.

Melbourne City midfielder Josh Brillante says the A-League leader's shock capitulation against Brisbane is a wake-up call after a number of "lazy" efforts late in previous games.

City conceded late goals against Wellington and Central Coast but took all three points both times, but let a 3-1 lead slip on Sunday against the Roar, conceding three goals in 24 minutes to lose 4-3.

"We knew that from the last couple of games - I think we got lazy in the last 10-15 minutes of the game and to cop easy goals like that is not a good habit to get into. It affected us last game," Brillante said on Wednesday.

"So we've got to practise on the pitch to have that mentality not to do that."

City will get the chance to make amends when they face Western Sydney on Friday night at Bankwest Stadium - but will be acutely aware the third-placed Wanderers are yet to lose an A-League game at their new home.

"Obviously, they're doing quite well too so it'll be a good competitive match and I think it's a good opportunity for us to show what we've got," Brillante said.

"I think the majority of these games are won in the last 10-15 minutes. Fitness is key and focus and concentration in the last 10-15 minutes, I think, is important in winning these games."

Brillante said he was enjoying playing a number of roles - including a more-attacking midfield role - at City, after spending three years as a defensive midfielder at Sydney FC.

"I think it's good for myself developing as a footballer. You can get a bit complacent sometimes doing the same role and it can get a bit easy but I've enjoyed the change because it's kept me mentally aware, I guess," he said.