The expansion club has signed a combination of experienced internationals and developing young players and Rudan said he was happy with how his squad was coming together.

"The atmosphere and the vibe around the place is good - we've created a pretty strong environment, a challenging environment," Rudan said.

"We want to get them out of their comfort zone - that's how I work. We want players who are going to buy in and they're buying in, their attitude has been first class."

Western United have won three pre-season matches against Victorian sides Caroline Springs George Cross, Preston Lions and North Geelong Warriors and will face A-League opponents Sydney FC and Adelaide United later this month.

"Three games, three clean sheets - that's a big positive as far as we're concerned. We're creating some goal scoring opportunities as well which is always a positive and that's how we like to play," Rudan said.

"But I think the players have to understand a bit more about the style. And we'll get there - it takes a long time, you might not see that until the second half of the season."

Former Socceroo Scott McDonald got off the mark for his new club in Tuesday night's 2-0 win over North Geelong Warriors and Rudan said it was an important confidence booster for the striker.

"He's a great pro, Scotty Mac, and he's good around the place as well but we really wanted him to get that monkey off his back as well for him," Rudan said.

"Getting that goal is always great for a striker and he'd be the first to admit that and hopefully it gives him that confidence as well that all strikers need."

The A-League newcomers will split their home games between Geelong and Ballarat this season and Rudan said the club needed to work to build a presence in Victoria's west.

"It's our job to get out there in the community and really sell our message and show who we are and what we're about and allow our identity to come through as well," Rudan said.

"It's a work in progress but ... we're always building and we're looking to improve and grow as a football club."

Australian Associated Press