MIDFIELDER Matt Jones says Melbourne’s mid-season break couldn’t have come at a better time.

Speaking after his side’s 83-point Queen’s Birthday loss to Collingwood on Monday, Jones said the week off was much needed after the club’s arduous season. 

“It’s going to be good to have some time away from the footy club,” he told melbournefc.com.au.

“I need a break, mentally and physically.

“I’m coping OK. It’s definitely a step up from what I’m used to, but it’s a great club, so I’m enjoying my time here so far.”

Jones, who collected 24 disposals and was one of Melbourne’s better players against Collingwood, said he was pleased with his efforts.

“I started the game at half-back and then ended up on the wing,” he said.

“I was pretty happy with my own game.”

Jones said Melbourne “hunted” the opposition early in the match, before falling away after quarter time.

“We did actually start the game well, but they ended up scoring 13 goals out of our turnovers, so that hurt us heaps. We started off all right though,” he said.

“Skill errors cost us a lot – basic skills like handballing, kicking.

“We’re not happy with it, but at least we showed signs. There were a couple of positives there, but it was disappointing.”