KYSAIAH Pickett has unleashed a six-goal masterclass to inspire Melbourne to a 14-point AFL victory over Port Adelaide in Alice Springs on Sunday.
The Demons were held goalless in a dour opening quarter, but Pickett produced two goal-of-the-year contenders among a career-best haul to help secure the 12.11 (83) to 10.9 (69) win.
The result means Melbourne (13-4) is now a game clear inside the top two.
Port Adelaide (8-9) is a win and percentage adrift of the top eight with five rounds remaining.
Demons defender Jake Lever suffered an injury scare in the opening term when he damaged his shoulder while falling in a marking contest.
Port entered the first break with a 13-4 lead, marking the fourth time this season the Demons have been held goalless in a quarter.
Lever was able to return to action in the second term as Melbourne produced a five-goal blitz inspired by two magical goals from Pickett.
The 21-year-old scored Melbourne’s first goal of the match when his fancy footwork and spin created space to nail a left-foot snap from the pocket.
His second goal was just as spectacular, with Pickett slotting a right-foot snap from the pocket while falling to the ground.
Jack Viney added to the highlights with a no-look handball over his shoulder to gift a goal to Luke Jackson from point-blank range.
And Port youngster Miles Bergman joined in on the fun with his own goal-of-the-year contender, nailing a right-foot banana while being pushed over by Steven May.
The Demons looked to be in trouble when Port Adelaide opened up a 10-point lead in the third quarter, but it was Pickett who again turned the momentum back Melbourne’s way.
A mid-air volley from the Demons speedster took Melbourne back to within a kick, and the Demons were in front when Pickett kicked truly after receiving a high tackle.
A 52m goal on the run from Pickett midway through the last quarter made the game safe, and he brought up his sixth with another snap from the pocket.
Pickett finished the match with 6.1 from 14 disposals, while Christian Petracca tallied 30 disposals and 10 clearances.
Travis Boak led the way for Port Adelaide with 29 disposals, five clearances and two goals, while Connor Rozee racked up 33 touches and a goal.
Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley wasn’t in attendance after contracting COVID-19 during the week.
(C) AAP 2022
