LEADER Nathan Jones says winning two in a row for the first time since rounds three and four was a “relief”.

Speaking on the back of Melbourne’s 27-point win over Richmond at the MCG on Saturday, the in-form Jones said it was important for the team’s confidence to string back-to-back wins. Melbourne’s successive wins earlier in the season came against Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast Suns.

“There was a bit of pressure coming into the match and we knew Richmond was in pretty good form,” Jones told melbournefc.com.au.

“We really had to fight it out hard, so it was always going to be a tough grind. But we showed some real resilience and it was a positive for the group and hopefully something that we can build on.

“We’ve got a big challenge now next Friday night.”

After being challenged early on by Richmond, Jones said his team’s ability to hit back showed strong resolve.

“Richmond started pretty well, which is a little bit unlike them in the last few weeks. But they came out of the blocks and full credit to them,” he said.

“It was good for us to fight back and we found our feet.

“They played a bit differently - a bit man-on-man - and that threw us out a little bit. But once we adjusted to that and got into our position, it started to build from there.”

The versatile Jones continued his underrated season with another fine performance against Richmond, collecting 24 disposals.

He said he is now feeling content with his game.

“I’m feeling good. My role has changed again this year - I played more of a run-with role last year,” he said.

“This year, I’m just using my running up and down the wing.

“It’s been a real positive for us. With Trenners (Jack Trengove) and Sculls (Tom Scully) and a core group of midfielders - we’ve all been able to play different roles. The versatility of the group is starting to show.

“It gets us some kind of consistency with a core group, especially in the midfield and I think it’s starting to show through.”

And he couldn’t hide his delight at kicking a couple of goals against the Tigers.

“I’ve been sneaking down there the last couple of weeks and I’ve had a few shots,” he said.  

“I love getting down there.”