COACH Paul Roos says he took a glass half full approach when assessing his side’s effort against Hawthorn at the MCG on Saturday.

Although Melbourne lost by 18 points, Roos said it was a strong performance against a side, which has won the past three premierships. 

“We troubled them at times, which was a compliment to our players,” he said.

“Their ability to win was a compliment to [Hawthorn coach] Clarko (Alastair Clarkson) and their senior players and what they’ve been able to do.

“Everyone acknowledges how good they are and they’ve got another level to go to again.”

Although he was pleased with team’s tenacity, he added that Hawthorn didn’t play at its best.

“I don’t know whether Clarko would say it, but I don’t think they played super well,” he said.

“From our point of view of where we’re at, it’s a pleasing effort.

“We took it up to them and they were just too good at the end of the day.”