CALE Morton says an emphasis on attacking has cost his side this year.

The Demons went down to the Bombers by 16 points on Saturday afternoon in a see-sawing match that saw Essendon get hauled in by Melbourne several times before they were allowed to escape again each time.

The youngest Morton brother compiled a career-high 26 disposals against the Bombers, and is a good chance to be nominated for the NAB AFL Rising Star award this week.

Despite the career-high possessions and goals (three), Morton was obviously disappointed after the match, clearly seeing it as one that got away.

"We were competitive at stages throughout the game, but when it did feel like we were getting back into the match, we let them kick away a bit too easily, so that's something we have to work on throughout the week," he said.

"Certainly in matches in the future, where we peg back a margin, we've got to be able to maintain that and run over the top of them.

"It might be us switching into too much of an attacking mode, and letting them out the back a bit too easily.

"Once they scored one goal we forgot the run-on we had, but for a young group of guys, we certainly have taken a huge step forward this year, and I think in the future we're going to be a good side.

"When we play good structured football we look good, but at times we do look like we're a bit disorganised. But on the flipside of that, when we're structured we know that we can play good footy and match it with any side."

The 2007 Larke Medallist says he's enjoying life immensely in Melbourne, having moved over from Perth last season.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my first season – Melbourne is a great club and I'm proud to be a part of it.