THURSDAY NIGHT saw Melbourne return to the winners' list, in a big way.

Challenged with the Brisbane Lions, who were placed first on the ladder leading into the blockbuster clash, the Demons knew work had to be done coming off three consecutive losses.

And that work was showcased when the home side soared to a resounding 64-point win, in what has been deemed as one of Melbourne’s most impressive performances of the season so far.

“I think tonight we re-established our method in how we want to look, [which] is a really contested side,” Goodwin told media post-match.

“We knew what we were up against, but we’ve worked incredibly hard the last three or four weeks on the training track and tonight it came out.”

Kicking a total of 16 goals, the Demons registered their second highest score of the season, with their connection inside 50 an obvious improvement from previous weeks.

The side also reignited their well-known pressure up forward, the energy from the likes of Kysaiah Pickett, Toby Bedford and Alex Neal-Bullen palpable from the stands.

“Our ability to execute role for a long period of time tonight was outstanding,” Goodwin said.

“It’s all about role execution and our connection forward of centre.

“I thought our decision making was better with ball-in-hand heading inside 50.

“The ability to execute role was there, so that gave us the numbers where we needed them and that helped us win contests ahead of the ball.”

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With skipper Max Gawn sidelined due to injury, Jack Viney stepped into the captain title and proved to be a dominating presence on-field.

The bullish midfielder was a clear standout on the night, making a major impact within the contest with 34 disposals, 19 contested possessions, seven tackles and eight clearances.

Goodwin praised the efforts of Viney and highlighted his leadership in what was an important game for the Dees.

“He’s an outstanding leader of our footy club and tonight he showed it again,” he said.

"He’s been brutal around the contest all year and he’s been in some fantastic form all year.

“But tonight, when the spotlight was on our footy club and he was skipper for the first time for the year, he stood up massively and I’m really proud of him.”

Melbourne will now enjoy an eight-day break before heading to Adelaide Oval to face Adelaide on Saturday 2 July.