THE five-goal performance from key forward Jesse Hogan against St Kilda at Etihad Stadium on Sunday was the continuation of an outstanding start to his AFL career, according to teammate Bernie Vince.

Although Melbourne went down by just two points, Hogan’s effort was a fine display for a player in his first season. Vince said the Western Australian was growing in stature every game.

“For someone who’s played 10 games now, to have an influence like he did [against St Kilda] – and most of the games he’s played – has been outstanding,” he said.

“For a young guy, he’s got to keep working hard and doing the things he does well, because he’s a great target to kick to.” 

Meanwhile, Vince said fellow South Australian Jimmy Toumpas played his best game for the Demons, even though his man Leigh Montagna kicked the winning goal for the Saints.

“I had a chat to him after the game [about it],” he said.

“He was really disappointed with that last play, but it was probably his best game that he’s played for the footy club.

“You’ve got to take the positives out of it as well. There were a lot of positives to come out of the game.”

Vince said he had seen a lot of improvement in the players since he joined the club, particularly the development of Toumpas and Jack Watts.