AFL: Pickett lifts Melbourne to thrilling first win of the season

Melbourne has snapped its worst start to an AFL season in over a decade with a thrilling 10-point win over Fremantle, powered by a career-best performance from Kysaiah Pickett.

The electric small forward booted five goals and had 24 disposals in a dazzling display at the MCG on Saturday afternoon, guiding the Demons to a much-needed 16.11 (107) to 14.13 (97) victory — their first in 245 days.

Despite a final quarter scare where Fremantle clawed within a kick thanks to a Jye Amiss double, a steadying goal from first-year player Harvey Langford sealed the deal and brought Melbourne fans to their feet in relief.

Pickett was sensational from the opening bounce, kicking four of his five majors in the first half — including a high-flying grab over teammate Harrison Petty and a cheeky peace-sign finish after burning off his defender. It was the type of performance that only fuels talk of a potential return to Western Australia for the 23-year-old, who looked every bit a game-breaker on the big stage.

With Bayley Fritsch and Jacob van Rooyen dropped, Petty also stood tall in a reconfigured forward line, booting four goals and providing a crucial focal point.

Melbourne looked much more like the side that won the 2021 flag, with Max Gawn (28 disposals, 31 hitouts, 10 clearances) leading from the front in a dominant second half. Christian Petracca (25 disposals, one goal), Jack Viney (25 disposals, one goal), Jake Bowey (29 disposals) and Trent Rivers (26 disposals, one goal) were also instrumental as the Dees produced their most composed and aggressive ball movement of the season.

Viney’s defensive job on Caleb Serong — who finished with 27 disposals but limited influence — was another turning point. Viney not only kept the Docker quiet early but also generated important clearance wins of his own.

Despite missing key defensive leaders Steven May and Jake Lever, Melbourne’s structure held firm. They denied Fremantle clean entries, often forcing them wide and limiting space for Josh Treacy and the Dockers’ forwards to operate.

Fremantle, who had been in fine form heading into Round 6, were left to rue a sluggish start. Shai Bolton (20 disposals, three goals) tried to spark his side with moments of brilliance, but the Dockers never fully recovered from an early 29-point second-term deficit.

While Andy Brayshaw (33 disposals) worked tirelessly and Hayden Young (25) showed class, the Dockers were outmuscled in the middle, losing the centre clearance battle 4.1 (25) to 1.0 (6) in a key difference-maker.

The only sour note for Melbourne came in the form of a concussion to Daniel Turner, who was subbed out at half-time.

But overall, this was a statement performance — one built on pressure, grit and moments of Kozzy magic. After five straight losses, the Dees are finally on the board in 2025.

Melbourne v Fremantle final score

Melbourne 16.11 (107)
Fremantle 14.13 (97)

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