CAPTAIN Nathan Jones says Melbourne is determined to bounce back hard against the Brisbane Lions at the MCG on Sunday, after starting their second half of the season in frustrating fashion.

Speaking at AAMI Park on Wednesday, Jones said the Demons were determined to attack their final 10 matches of the season with gusto, after their epic win over Geelong at Simonds Stadium in round 12.

But the Dees have dropped their past two matches since their round 13 bye against the West Coast Eagles at TIO Stadium and Essendon at the MCG respectively – leaving eight matches to improve their season.

Jones said after a solid review of Melbourne’s nine-point loss to the Bombers last Saturday, the Demons were ready to make amends against the Lions this weekend.   

“We felt like last week we let ourselves down considering we had raised the stakes and the standards – and we expect more from each other,” he said.

“There is no difference in that this week. We’ve thoroughly reviewed the game [against Essendon] and guys were held to a really high account of themselves.

“To the boys’ credit, they’ve copped it on the chin and put their hand up for efforts or instances in the game where it could’ve been better – and I was involved in that process as well.

“We’re just striving to be the best footy club we can be and as consistent with our performances as we can be. I expect us to respond on the weekend.”

Meanwhile, Jones said veteran ruckman Mark Jamar was continually pushing for a recall with strong form in the VFL.

“He’s been putting his hand up weekly in the VFL. He faced a bit of a different circumstance earlier in the year – he wasn’t out of form, but I thought Jake Spencer and Maxy Gawn had been banging the door down,” he said.

“They got their opportunity, but to Mark’s credit, being a senior player, [it could’ve] been a tough pill to swallow, but he’s been a real leader at Casey and they’re having a pretty good season.

“I was there on the weekend, watching him play and he was really good. I think that’s a decision that’s going to come down to the coaches a bit later in the week – and whether they tactically take in two ruckmen versus [Matthew] Leuenberger and [Stefan] Martin for the Lions.

“I would expect [Jamar] to get a chance later in the year, as long as he keeps playing consistent footy.”