MELBOURNE coach Steven King has commended his side’s resilience in its 16-point win over North Melbourne on Saturday.
The Dees defeated the Roos at Marvel Stadium despite an early jump from the home side, with North Melbourne holding the lead at both the quarter and half-time breaks.
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“We knew what we were walking into today, North’s form at Marvel has been really solid,” King said.
“They were really efficient early, they got ascendancy at centre bounce, but for me, it was the resilience shown from our group to wrestle that back and get the game looking more the way we wanted it to.
“The players stood up, a couple were asked to player different roles today, which they did really well.
“After quarter time, we were able to just grind it out and find a way to win, so I’m really proud of our group to do that.”
A talking point from the win was Matt Jefferson’s breakout display up forward, kicking a career-high four goals.
King praised the young Demon’s efforts, highlighting his development across his craft as a forward.
“I was thrilled for Jeffo today,” King said.
“Jeffo’s only [18] games into his career, his body has developed, he’s building the profile athletically of what it takes to be a forward.
“It’s more about his resilience to keep fronting up. His launch at the footy, bringing it to ground, his defensive pressure for a power forward is right up at the top level and it’s great to see him reward himself in front of goal.
“I’m really pleased for Jeffo today, it was significant for him and it helped us get the result that we were after.”
Melbourne will turn its attention to this week’s game, an exciting one for the Demons' calendar, returning to Friday night footy at the MCG.
The Dees will host the Cats for a fresh installment on the modern rivalry the two teams have created.
“To get a home Friday night game, I believe as a footy club, we deserve it,” King said.
“We play a brand of footy that people want to watch, whether you’re a Melbourne supporter or not.
“To get under Friday night lights against Geelong, that’s huge for us, we can’t wait for that opportunity to come up against the best, test ourselves in prime time.”
