BILLY Stretch says kicking a crucial goal in the final term to give his side a 27-point buffer – in just his fourth AFL match – was a moment he could only dream about.

Stretch, who again showed some impressive signs, booted a goal at the eight-minute mark of the final term to help set up Melbourne’s 24-point win over Geelong at Simonds Stadium on Sunday.  

“I was lucky I kicked it. It was at a pretty crucial stage of the match, and we just had an all-round effort and a real four quarter effort from the boys,” he said.

“We just competed all day and cracked in … it was fantastic.

“To be part of such a young, talented group – and we’re really building – is fantastic. It’s just unbelievable … and there are a lot of emotions, so it’s great.”

Stretch, the son of former Melbourne star Steven, said it was still a work in progress for the Demons, but added that “if we back the system in, it’ll pay off”.

He said it was “pretty surreal” to play with one of his closest mates, Alex Neal-Bullen, who kicked three goals in just his second match.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling and what better way than to spend it winning with Alex,” Stretch said.  

“You still have to pinch yourself to realise you’re playing at the elite level and we’re working on it week by week to improve our game to try and fit into an AFL environment.  

“It’s a fantastic challenge and we’re just grabbing the opportunity when we can – that’s for sure.”