THE PRAISE for Melbourne’s Round 18 win has fallen the way of Kysaiah Pickett, and rightfully so.

The lively small forward booted a career-high six goals to help the Demons to a 14-point victory over Port Adelaide.

But aside from Pickett’s heroics, the Dees got back to basics to help get their season rolling with five rounds to play.

And for James Harmes, it stemmed from the group’s team-first actions.

“I think that’s what we build our game on, is being selfless for each other and playing for your teammates,” he told Melbourne Media post-game.

“I thought we [brought] that today.

The Dees’ performance at TIO Traeger Park wasn’t perfect, trailing their opposition in some key statistical areas.

On Sunday afternoon, Port Adelaide had 56 more disposals, 21 more marks, 13 more clearances and six more inside 50s, but the Demons did enough right to see them retain second spot on the ladder.

And that result has shown the club what it will take to be successful at the pointy end of the year.

“Just keep being selfless, playing team football and we know if we do that then the scoreboard should take care of itself,” Harmes said.

“We’ve got a massive game next week against the Bulldogs who are a pretty in-form team.

“We’re looking forward to that.”

To hear more from Harmes, watch the interview below.