TOM McDonald says it was “bloody exciting” to kick the match-winner and secure a stunning three-point win over the West Coast Eagles at Domain Stadium on Saturday night.

McDonald kicked a career-best five goals in an outstanding performance, which helped Melbourne to its first win over West Coast since 2009 – and its first over the Eagles in Perth since 2002. The versatile tall said it was a moment he would never forget.

“I can’t stop smiling really. I thought we were nearly done with five or six minutes to go and we were down by two or three goals,” he told Melbourne TV.

“We just got that little burst of energy from a few guys and then all of a sudden we got a sniff and guys were just digging a little deeper.

“We had a little bit of luck with the last kick, but you need them sometimes and we’ll take it this time.”

Despite producing some fine defensive roles over the years, McDonald said it was “hard to judge” if this was his best game for Melbourne in 117 appearances.

“I’ve never done this before, playing forward. I’ve had games down back where I feel like I’ve had similar impact, but it’s not measured the same way,” he said.

“It’s probably going to look like my best game for the club, but it’s different for me and it’s a different role. I was just happy I was able to contribute and make a contest.

“There were still things I was disappointed with and how I played, but I was excited for the win and excited I was able to get a few through the big sticks, but there are still things to work on for me as well.”

McDonald said Melbourne’s recent form – it has won its past four matches – was something special to be a part of. 

“This form is really exciting. We want to make the eight and have an impact and we want to be a team that can be reckoned with,” he said.

“This performance gives guys a lot of confidence that we can win away in a hostile environment, and in front of 30 to 40,000 screaming fans against us.

“Guys were also able to stand up in adversity and blokes were a bit sore, but they were able to guts out the game, which shows a lot of character.”