A “MATURE” Melbourne was the basis of a dominant performance at GIANTS Stadium on Sunday afternoon according to coach Simon Goodwin.

The Dees were 43-point victors over the Hawks, in a display that saw them record their biggest score of the season to date.

And while their forward efforts were strong, as too was their defence, keeping the Hawks to just seven goals for the game.

“I thought we started to get some reward for our ability to defend and our ability to play the game in our half of the ground,” Goodwin said in his post-match press conference.

“It was a really mature performance from our guys.”

The Demons, who have toyed with their forward line structure in recent weeks, found a solid mix in Round 7.

Sam Weideman was influential, kicking three goals and creating plenty of contests, while youngster Luke Jackson impressed in just his second AFL game.

Finishing with nine individual goalkickers was another big tick for the coach.

“It’s been a work in progress for a long period of time,” Goodwin said.

"(Sam) Weideman and (Luke) Jackson were both really strong in the air and that gave us great ground-level support.

"There are some things we've tinkered with a little bit but also we've been working really hard on that for a fair while now and we're just starting to get some reward, which is great for the players and the club."

While its forward-50 connection saw a big improvement, Melbourne’s midfield also took things up a notch.

Skipper Max Gawn continued his command, managing 27 hitouts, 22 disposals and eight marks, while Jack Viney, Clayton Oliver and Christian Petracca combined well across the ground.

And it was Petracca’s influence that really caught the eye of fans.

“There’s no doubt Christian is becoming a very good player,” Goodwin said.

“But the more pleasing thing for us is the whole midfield group is working really well together.

“We’re starting to get some real depth in there.”

With two wins from as many games in Sydney, the Demons now head to Queensland to continue their hub life, where a clash with Brisbane on Sunday awaits.

“We’re enjoying being away,” Goodwin said.

“We’ve embraced the hub lifestyle and it’s given our players and coaches a great chance to be together, more than we would in Victoria.

“You can see the way they’re connecting together off-field is starting to show on-field.

“Brisbane is an outstanding footy team – we know what we’re up against and we look forward to the challenge.”