Few positives could be drawn from Melbourne’s miserable 101-point loss to the Swans, but Jack Watts’ performance was definitely one. Watts, who returned to the side after a two-match stint with Casey in the VFL, produced a career-best 34 disposals (including 12 contested) and worked tirelessly down back. He also took 11 marks and had eight rebound 50s. From a statistical perspective, Champion Data ranked Watts the second best player of the match, behind Sydney’s Kieren Jack - a fair effort considering Melbourne’s result.

… And so does Blease

In just his second AFL match for the season - and his seventh overall - Sam Blease, like Watts, collected career-best figures: 29 disposals, which included 14 contested possessions. He also had 10 clearances. It was a fine effort from the youngster, as he too had come under the microscope. Blease has immense talent and skill and has the ability to be an integral part of the line-up long-term. Watts was pleased for Blease that he was able to show his wares. “Me and Sammy got drafted together and it was pretty tough to start off with,” he told melbournefc.com.au. “But I think [this match] was good for us to show that we can do it at AFL level. For Sammy, I think that’ll give him a huge amount of confidence - and that’s the main thing, getting some confidence and belief. He could do anything, so I’m really excited for him.”

Howe good was that mark?

The brightest moment from Melbourne’s dark night was Jeremy Howe’s incredible mark over Swan Heath Grundy in the third quarter. It was the Tasmanian’s finest mark yet from his brief, but emerging - and exciting - career. It is now more likely than not that Howe will take an outstanding mark each match, but this one was something else. With one spring-heeled leap, Howe sat on the shoulders of Grundy, before bouncing back to earth with the ball in his arms. It was genuinely one for the archives.

Injuries again hurt

Although a myriad of reasons have been pointed to Melbourne’s poor start to the season, one which has often been overlooked has been its injury list. To illustrate the point, Melbourne entered round eight averaging almost 11 players unavailable from its list each week - they’re not great figures to deal with for a developing side, let alone an established one. On Saturday, 2011 club leading goalkicker Liam Jurrah played his first match of the season, but finished on crutches with a leg injury. It was hardly the sight Melbourne supporters wanted to see, given Jurrah’s absence in 2012. It was also another blow for the Northern Territorian, who has had to ensure some incredible personal issues off-field. The Demons have had a host of players miss matches this season, which has resulted in a lack of continuity in the side and has been a factor in their disappointing season to date.

The frustration continues

Coach Mark Neeld said post-match there was no way you could hide from the fact that “a 101-point loss was a 101-point loss”. But what happens now? Quite simply, the Demons have to get back on their bike, keep working to their plan, train and prepare accordingly and keep reinforcing belief and confidence among the group. It’s been remarkably difficult for all associated with the red and blue, but the Dees must keep at it. Dropping their bundle won’t help. It must also be remembered Melbourne is in an extremely difficult period, playing seven of the top eight from last year from rounds five to 11. The Swans are also fourth on the ladder and started the season with five consecutive wins. Realistically, pundits were never going to tip Melbourne in this period. And although it won’t ease up, with Carlton, Essendon and Collingwood to follow, the Demons must dare to buck the trend and defy the odds by ensuring at least one upset occurs before the mid-season break. Yes, the Dees remain winless, but small steps and goals must continue in 2012.