COACH Simon Goodwin has praised his leadership group for its ability to stand up, when the pressure was on against St Kilda early in Saturday’s clash at Etihad Stadium.

Goodwin said the likes of co-captain Nathan Jones, boom recruit Jordan Lewis and 2015 best and fairest winner Bernie Vince stood up when St Kilda took control early in the first term.

He said they contributed, with the likes of defender Tom McDonald, to help regain the lead and ultimately contribute to Melbourne’s 30-point win.

Goodwin couldn’t speak highly enough of his leaders after the win.

“Our leaders were terrific,” he said.

“I thought Tom McDonald down back early, [particularly] when Oscar [McDonald] was being isolated pretty heavily and Tom did a terrific job to really gather some composure.

“I thought Jordan Lewis and Nathan Jones around the footy [were very good] with their composure.

“I thought Bernie Vince down back, with his competitive nature of the way he plays – I thought our leaders were terrific.”

Goodwin added that ruckman Max Gawn was also pivotal when he returned from an early injury in the game, which forced him to the bench. But once he returned, he played a major role in the win.

“He’s an incredible player and an asset to have in the team,” he said.