SEVEN points the difference after the first break, Melbourne boots its highest score for 2012, the Pies continue their dominance over the Dees, Nathan Jones’ consistency rises and the starring Magpies in the win … are among the five things we learned in round 11  

Seven points the difference after quarter-time

Melbourne’s poor opening term proved costly in the wash-up. The Pies kicked 6.3 to 0.4, gaining a 35-point advantage. But take away the disappointment of the first quarter and Melbourne was able to compete for the rest of the match. In fact, it lost the final three terms combined by just seven points. The Demons drew the second term and won the third quarter by nine points. But at one stage, Melbourne trailed by 52 points in the second term, yet pegged the margin back to four goals in the third term. It was a reasonable fight back, considering Melbourne did not kick its first goal until the 15 minute mark of the second term, when Jeremy Howe opened Melbourne’s account. From that point, Melbourne kicked 13 goals to 11. Still, Collingwood’s brilliant start was the catalyst in the victory.

Melbourne kicks its highest score for season

Despite its 42-point loss to Collingwood, Melbourne was able to register its highest score for the season: 13.9 (87). Its previous best was in round one against the Brisbane Lions, when it kicked 11.12 (78). Although it’s hardly a score to ride home about, it was yet another step in the right direction against a quality opposition. The addition of defenders Colin Garland and Jared Rivers, in the second half, added some tall targets for the Demons, helping out Mitch Clark, who continued his outstanding season with four goals. Clark has been a fine acquisition for the Demons since crossing from the Brisbane Lions at the end of last season. He now has 25 goals for the season and is just three goals shy of his best haul in a season.

Collingwood continues its dominance over Dees

Although there have been some tight encounters between Melbourne and Collingwood in recent times - think the two clashes in 2010 - the Pies continued their outstanding recent streak against the Demons. Melbourne has not defeated Collingwood since round 11, 2007. The Pies have won seven of their past eight against the Demons, with the drawn clash in round 12, 2010 the only different result occurring in that period. Melbourne hasn’t kicked 100 points in that period either, while Collingwood has booted 100 points or more five times. For the record, it was also the Pies’ eighth win in a row this season.

Jones jumping in stature

Leader Nathan Jones has been one of Melbourne’s most consistent performers in 2012. He had an equal career best 31 disposals (including 14 contested possessions) against Collingwood, and was the only Demon to win more than 25 touches. He has averaged 23.55 disposals per match this season, amassing 259 touches - 45 more than Jack Grimes, who has the second most for the Demons. His durability remains and his consistency continues to rise.

Dane and Dayne a pain in Melbourne’s Sidebottom

The Magpies had some dominant players against the Dees, highlighted by the performances of Dane Swan (42 disposals), Dayne Beams (37) and Steele Sidebottom (36), who combined for 115 disposals. The trio was outstanding in the win, while Jarryd Blair and Sharrod Welligham were also pivotal in Collingwood’s win. The quintet also combined for eight of Collingwood’s 19 goals.