GREEN’S milestone and farewell, Sylvia’s strong form, Dees suffer third worst defeat of season, the upcoming Perth trip … these are among the points raised from Sunday's 69-point loss against Adelaide Crows at the MCG

Green says goodbye with another milestone reached 

An outstanding AFL career came to a close against the Crows, when Brad Green played the last of his 254 games - the sixth most in Melbourne’s history. The much loved Demon started the day in style, kicking the opening goal, and finished the day with 2.2. And he was particularly good in the first term, when Melbourne was right in the contest. He finished with 14 touches and showed he could play at the highest level right to the end. Green has achieved plenty in his career, and he also achieved another accolade in his final appearance, when he booted his 350th goal and became just the seventh player in the club’s history to reach this figure. Green has given his all for the red and blue and whatever his future holds - he will no doubt play a role in the AFL industry from next year and beyond - he has been an outstanding person and servant of Melbourne and the game. Well done Brad!

A fitting moment for Brad

Last week, Melbourne and Greater Western Sydney players formed a guard of honour for Luke Power, after he played his 300th AFL match. The Demons received a similar accolade when the Crows formed a guard of honour for Green, who was chaired off by co-captains Jack Grimes and Jack Trengove. Although Melbourne’s result was a disappointing to end to Green’s career, it was a fitting mark of respect to have the incumbent skippers carrying off the former. Green may have only held the captaincy for one season, but he remains a highly respected player in the club, and one who has left a strong legacy of what it takes to play at the highest level.

Sylvia continues strong second half of season

Statistically, Colin Sylvia had his best match for the season against the Crows. He notched up a season high - and equal second career best - 34 touches. After a tough start to the season, interrupted by a back injury and a one match club suspension, Sylvia has shown his class and ability after the mid-season break. He remains an important member of Melbourne’s plans.

Dees suffer third worst loss of the season

Melbourne’s 69 point loss to Adelaide was its third worst loss of the season. Interestingly, although not overly surprising, Melbourne’s four heaviest defeats this season have come against the current top four. Its biggest loss came against West Coast Eagles in round two, when it was smashed by 108 points at Patersons Stadium. The Demons lost to Sydney Swans by 108 points at the SCG in round eight, and Hawthorn by 66 points at the MCG in round seven.

And now for the toughest road trip to end the season …

The Demons have a terrible record at Patersons Stadium, but they certainly aren’t on their own in that statistic. It’s a tough hunting ground for any team that confronts Fremantle and the West Coast Eagles. On Saturday, Melbourne plays Fremantle. It will be a massive challenge, given Freo has secured a position in the top eight and is coming off a fine win over North Melbourne. Still, co-captain Jack Trengove says the Demons must finish off the season strongly with a competitive showing in Perth. “We’ve really been pushing to run hard to the line, and a lot of teams in our position fall into the trap of seeing the end of the line and the end of the season and falling over,” Trengove told melbournefc.com.au. “It’s important for our club and where we are as a list to finish off strongly, so we really want to put in a really good effort against Freo. It’s always tough going over to Subiaco and playing against them, but we’re going to do our best to finish off strongly and take a few positives into the pre-season.”