COACH Paul Roos says being challenged and responding was the most pleasing aspect to come from Melbourne’s 26-point win over the Gold Coast Suns at the MCG.

Roos said the fact Melbourne stepped up each time the visitors threatened to grab the lead was a big tick for his side.

“This footy club has been challenged a lot and the results haven't been great when that's happened [in the past],” he said post-match.

“We played some good footy ... [but] getting challenged in the second, third and fourth quarters – and the guys responding on the ground, I think, was the most pleasing thing.”

Roos was also particularly pleased with the pressure that his side applied on the Suns.

“I thought our speed forward of the ball was really important – no doubt,” he said.

“Just having the quick guys down there and Frosty's (Sam Frost) very quick as well – that was probably the difference. Even at times when we weren't playing as well … we were able to keep it in there because of the speed of our forwards.

“They were excellent today with their tackling, pressure and chasing, [which] forced turnovers – it was really good.”

Roos said the seven new Melbourne players – Heritier Lumumba, Jeff Garlett, Sam Frost, Ben Newton, Jesse Hogan, Angus Brayshaw and Aaron vandenBerg – all played crucial parts in the win.

“The guys who came from other clubs have really fitted in exceptionally well and the new players, the first-gamers, all did their bit when they had to,” he said.

“It was certainly a good day for the club.”